§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Industry what financial assistance he has given to the carpet industry during 1980–81 with a view to preserving jobs, including increased investment for plant and machinery.
§ Mr. MacGregorSelective financial assistance in the form of grants has been made available to companies in the carpet industry under sections 7 and 8 of the Industry Act 1972. In the period 1980–81, 13 offers totalling £296,000 have been made. The figures include section 7 assistance to companies in Wales and Scotland, which is the responsibility of the Secretaries of State for Wales and Scotland respectively. Information relating to regional development grants to companies in the carpet industry is not readily available and cannot be provided without disproportionate cost.