§ Mr. Neil Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations have been made to him regarding the effect of regional and other aid given to companies and persons where there is already over capacity in that particular industry; and what checks his Department makes on these matters before making grants to new firms.
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§ Mr. Butcher[pursuant to the reply, 15 March 1985, c. 32]: Representations on this subject are made from time to time. Capacity in the sector of industry concerned and the possible displacement effect of Government assistance are factors that are always taken into account before selective financial assistance, on a regional or national basis, is offered. But cases are looked at on their merits and the prime consideration, apart from additionality, is the viability of the individual proposal.