§ Mr. Spriggsasked the Secretary of State for Industry what reductions have occurred in investment and production of the major industries in each of the former special development areas which he downgraded earlier this year; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellThe precise effects of regional industrial policies on particular industries in specific areas cannot be measured. The changes announced last year are intended to focus aid on those parts of the country with the greatest problems. However, the economic well-being of all parts of the country depends mainly on national economic improvement, which our overall policies are designed to bring about.