§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the powers granted by legislation which allow Scottish local authorities to provide assistance to industry; and which of these powers enable them to make available rent-free factories to incoming industry.
§ Mr. Gregor MacKenzieAssistance may be given in a number of forms to industry by local authorities under several legislative provisions. These include Section 7 of the Local Government (Development and Finance) (Scotland) Act 1964 and Sections 74, 78 and 83 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. The scope for granting rent-free periods or making other rental concessions on factory buildings under these provisions is a matter for local authorities' own interpretation. Further powers will be available to local authorities whose areas are designated under the Inner Urban Areas Bill, which is at present before Parliament.