§ Mr. Moateasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will confirm that the paper industry has been designated as one of the key industrial sectors under the Government's industrial strategy.
§ Mr. CarmichaelAt the National Economic Development Council's meeting on 4th February the Council recommended that the paper and board industry should be included on the industrial strategy list. It was reported to the subsequent meeting on 3rd March that agreement had been reached on setting up a tripartite working group to take part in the industrial strategy.
§ Mr. Moateasked the Secretary of State for Industry what new grants or loans are being made available to the paper industry; for what specific purposes; whether they are being made on a regional basis; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CarmichaelAs my hon. Friend the Minister of State indicated recently, the Government are preparing a scheme of assistance for the paper and board industry aimed at increasing its capacity to use indigenous raw materials, particularly waste paper. I will make a further statement as soon as possible.