§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what assessment has been made of the impact on Newcastle university of the loss of research and development resources at British Gas, Killingworth.
§ Mr. Charles WardleI understand that British Gas places research contracts with universities throughout the United Kingdom on the basis of their capabilities. The existing work programmes at Newcastle university will continue in accordance with the contracts and new proposals will be considered, along with those from other universities, in the same manner as before.
§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what offer of regional assistance was made to British Gas to retain employment for those persons who are employed at Killingworth.
§ Mr. Charles WardleNo offer of regional selective assistance has been made to British Gas and no application for such assistance has been received.