§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Prime Minister whether is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to seek to recover regional development grant paid to companies in respect of plants such as Leyland, Bathgate, in all cases where that development is closed or is sold to another company; and if she will make a statement.
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§ The Prime MinisterRegional development grants are made in respect of specific assets which become subject to a number of conditions intended to ensure that the assets are used on qualifying premises for at least four years. If a plant closes down or is sold, then grant is reclaimed on any assets still subject to the conditions, but allowance is usually made for the period of use. Consideration is given to waiving recovery only if the assets are put to further use on qualifying premises.