§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he is now able to give figures for the average time between receipt of applications for regional development grants and payment being made; what savings there have been as a result of the four-month delay in effecting payment, introduced in June 1979; what is the total amount of grants at present delayed; and whether he will now put an end to the cash flow system, having regard to the deferral problems of industry and the need to promote employment by encouraging capital investment.
§ Mr. MacGregorThe average time between receipt of applications and payment being made is some seven to eight months, including the four months' deferment. Following the introduction of deferment in June 1979 expenditure in 1979–80 was reduced by £110 million. Currently, £223 million grant is deferred. Ending the 97W deferment would have public expenditure implications which must be taken into account. The matter is kept under review.