§ Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he is now prepared to issue industrial development certificates for the replacement of obsolete factories in urban areas; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieMy Department is concerned about the increasing number of obsolete factories in urban areas. In order to facilitate the improvement316W of industrial efficiency and working conditions, we have been considering whether there is any way in which speculative industrial redevelopment of old industrial sites outside the assisted areas could be undertaken consistently with the aims of the industrial development certificate system.
I have now decided to introduce an experimental scheme whereby IDCs could be issued in certain circumstances and subject to certain conditions. The scheme will be reviewed after two years. I am publishing details in tomorrow's issue of Trade and industry.