§ 19. Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what assistance his Department has given during the course of the current year to the Scottish knitwear industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. YoungerSince 1 January 1982, my Department has offered a total of £578,000 in selective grants under the Industry Act 1972 to companies in the Scottish knitwear industry. Assistance has also been made available to some companies under the Department of Employment's temporary short time working compensation scheme.
I am aware that the world-wide recession is having a considerable effect on the industry, since much of its 180W production is exported, but like other sectors it will benefit from the Government's success in bringing inflation under control.