§ Mr. DonohoeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what are the criteria applied by the Scottish Office in making awards of regional selective assistance; what safeguards exist in the event of the ownership of a company in receipt of regional selective assistance changing; how the Scottish Office polices companies in receipt of regional selective assistance; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StewartThe criteria for regional selective assistance include location, investment, jobs, need, viability and private sector financial support. In the event of a change in ownership, an offer of assistance may be transferred to the new owners, or alternatively the grant may be withheld or recovered depending on the circumstances of the case. Throughout the term of each offer of assistance, and always prior to any payment of grant, detailed company progress reports are obtained which have been certified by independent accountants.
§ Mr. DonohoeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what amount of money was received by Conner Peripherals (UK) Ltd. in regional selective assistance in the last five years; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what amount of money was received by Amkor Anam (Europe) Ltd. in regional selective assistance before its announcement of the closure of its plant in Irvine.
§ Mr. StewartI refer the hon. member to my answer on 5 November 1993,Official Report, column 239.