§ Mr. Booth asked the Prime Minister which aids to special development areas and development areas have been reduced or withdrawn since May 1979; and what current United Kingdom and European Economic Community aids are available to these aid-assisted areas exclusively.
§ Mr. Whitelaw:I have been asked to reply.
Following is the information:
- On 18 July 1979 the minimum values of qualifying assets for regional development grant were raised from £100 to £500 for plant and machinery and from £1,000 to £5,000 for buildings and works.
- Since 18 July 1979 regional assistance under section 7 of the Industry Act 1972, available throughout the assisted areas, has been restricted to those projects for which it is necessary to enable them to go ahead.
- On 1 August 1980 the rate of RDG payable in development areas was reduced from 20 per cent. to 15 per cent. of eligible expenditure.
RDG is the only form of regional assistance available in special development areas and development areas exclusively.