§ Mr. BerminghamTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what are the specific guidelines to be issued on the type of investments which may qualify for selective assistance.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe question has been interpreted as referring to regional selective assistance (RSA). In order to qualify for RSA, investment projects must create or safeguard employment in the assisted areas. They should have good prospects of achieving commercial viability so370W that the employment benefits are durable. They should also strengthen the regional and national economy; for example, by improving productivity, increasing exports or introducing new technology. Any adverse impact on employment in other firms is taken into account. Manufacturing and service sector firms may receive assistance, but service sector projects which serve only a local market do not generally qualify for RSA.
§ Mr. BerminghamTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many applications he has received for regional development grants in the north-west(a) during the 11-week period after his announcement that grants would end and (b) during the previous financial year; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsFollowing the announcement of the termination of the revised regional development grant scheme on 12 January 1988, about 2,500 applications were received in the north-west by the 31 March deadline. In the financial year to 31 March 1987, 2,435 applications were received in the north-west. The equivalent figure for the calendar year to 31 December 1987 was 2,775.