§ Mr. Hal Millerasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many representations he has received for removing the requirement for industrial development certificates in the West Midlands; and if he will now suspend this requirement at least on a temporary basis in view of the high unemployment in the area.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieAs unemployment has risen in recent months I have received an increasing number of representations about IDCs. IDC applications are decided with full regard to the circumstances and plans of individual firms and the needs and resources of the locations concerned, particularly the current and266W expected labour situation. They continue to have an important part to play in the Government's regional policy and a temporary suspension of the control in response to the present unemployment situation in the non-Assisted areas would not be justified.