§ 31. Mr. Patrick Thompsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement about jobs created as a result of Government grants under section 8 of the Industry Act.
§ Mr. TrippierIn contrast to section 7 of the Industrial Development Act 1982, which is specifically about employment in the assisted areas, section 8 schemes and project support contribute only indirectly to jobs bacause their thrust is towards economic benefit and the national interest generally. Job creation is not a criterion for section 8 support, so we do not keep records of jobs directly created. However, I am confident that assistance aimed at improving the ability of United Kingdom industry to compete worldwide can only assist in preserving and creating employment over time.