§ Mr. SteinbergTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what has been the total of grants paid by his Department to Courtaulds in respect of its Belmont factory since its inception: when the last grant payment was made; if, in view of the closure of the factory, Courtaulds will be repaying grant; what advance notice was given to his Department of the closure of the factory: and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsDetails of assistance paid to individual companies are published in "British Business" in accordance with established procedures. Assistance paid to Courtaulds in respect of its Belmont factory has been mainly by way of regional selective assistance, most of which was paid in 1975 and 1976. No assistance has been paid since 1986. The question of any repayment of grant is a matter for consideration by my Department in negotiation with the company. My Department was notified of the proposed closure the day before the press announcement on 11 December. While the closure is, of course, regrettable, it is a matter for the commercial judgment of the company.