§ 29. Mr. Hirstasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement about the role of BSC (Industry) Ltd. in generating employment in areas affected by steel plant closures.
§ Mr. ButcherYes. BSC (Industry) Ltd. has a commendable record of job creation in steel closure areas; and I applaud the efforts of all concerned. The main function of the company now is to support business opportunity teams, operating in 18 designated areas. The company also converts old industrial buildings into smaller starter workshops. BSC (Industry) Ltd. reports having received over 20,000 inquiries since 1978. Two thousand businesses have been assisted; and these are committed to creating some 50,000 jobs by March 1987.