§ Mr. Nobleasked the Secretary of State for Industry if, in the light of general exclusions which apply to the provision of finance through the European Investment Bank for projects which would increase production capacity in certain sectors of the textile industry, he will make a statement on the availability of grants from his Department, under the 1972 Industry Act, sections 7 and 8, which would have a similar effect in those sectors.
§ Mr. Les HuckfieldRegional assistance under section 7 of the Industry Act 1972 is given for viable projects creating or preserving jobs in the assisted areas. The effect of the assistance on overall capacity is taken into account in appropriate cases. Each application is considered on its merits. This is also the case for section 8 assistance although the capacity position in a sector is an important consideration in the industrial case for support. Industry schemes for textile sectors have reflected this in the emphasis given to restructuring and rationalisation.