§ Mr. McLeishTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the implications for employment prospects and the local economy of the difficulties facing Aero Technologies of Cumbernauld and Glenrothes; and if he will meet the directors to discuss the firm's problems.
§ Mr. LangI understand that the numbers involved at the company's plants in Cumbernauld and Glenrothes are fewer than 100. These losses have to be seen in the context of increases of 944 and 107 in net employment in each of these new towns respectively during 1987–88. My officials are always ready to meet representatives of companies in Scotland who consider that the schemes of assistance operated by my Departments are relevant to their circumstances.
§ Mr. McLeishTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how much regional industrial grant Aero Technologies of Cumbernauld and Glenrothes has received for its factories, plant or equipment; what steps have been taken to secure the plant and machinery against the possibility of removal; and what investigations are being carried out into its original application for grant assistance.
§ Mr. LangThe amount of regional development grant paid to Allivane International Ltd., now known as Aero Technologies in respect of its activities at Cumbernauld was published inBritish Business on 4 September 1987. RDG is not available in Glenrothes new town, an intermediate area. The disposal of assets at Cumbernauld is a matter for the company. My Department is monitoring the situation to ensure full compliance with the conditions attached to the payment of grant.