§ Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many enterprises have been assisted by the Co-operative Development Agency since the Co-operative Development Agency Act was passed; how many of these enterprises are still in operation; and what is the total number of jobs in these enterprises.
§ Mr. David MitchellThis is a matter for the Agency itself. However, the Agency informs me that it has given advice or assistance to five existing co-operatives, 54 prospective co-operatives and seven companies. One of the existing co-operatives is no longer trading, and the other four employ some 130 people. Of the prospective co-operatives, four are now set up, employing some 30 people; six are being set up and should employ some 80 to 90 people; and the Agency expects several others to be set up. Of the seven companies, the Agency hopes that three can be converted to co-2W operatives, safeguarding some 350 jobs. The consequence for employment of advice given to other bodies, and in particular to local authorities, cannot be quantified.