§ Mr. Beggsasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he has given consideration to seeking to recover Government grants paid out to successful and profitable Northern Ireland companies which cease manufacturing in Northern Ireland and transfer their production to mainland factories; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. BoysonIt is the practice to attach repayment conditions where companies receive selective financial assistance or standard capital grant from the Department of Economic Development. Conditions vary depending upon the nature of the assistance and are time limited. Where a company ceases manufacturing in Northern Ireland while recovery conditions are current, repayment of grant, either in whole or in part, would normally be sought.