§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Industry what negotiations are to take place regarding the EEC Commission's scrutiny of regional assistance in the United Kingdom; and what is the attitude of the EEC to topping-up support for regional employment.
Mr. Alan WilliamsThe United Kingdom notifies the Commission of changes to regional aid schemes in accordance with its obligations under the Treaty of Rome, and discussions with the Commission take place as necessary. Our experience has been that the Commission favours investment incentives which lead to increased employment in the regions, provided that the aids concerned do not distort or threaten to distort competition.