HC Deb 25 March 1980 vol 981 cc473-4W
Q33. Mr. Marlow

asked the Prime Minister if she will list the functions of the Secretary of State for Industry.

Sir Keith Joseph

I have been asked to reply.

I am responsible for policy in relation to industry including policy towards small firms. I am responsible for regional industrial policy and for financial assist- ance to industry other than through the tax system, though some of my functions in these fields relate only to England. I "sponsor" the general manufacturing industries, as well as British Aerospace, British Shipbuilders, the British Steel Corporation, the Post Office, Cable and Wireless Limited, and the National Enterprise Board. I am responsible for the operation of the Government's industrial research establishments, and for the Business Statistics Office.