§ Mr. MudieTo ask the President of the Board of Trade when he last visited Yorkshire to discuss defence diversification; and if he will make a statement. [25099]
§ Mr. EggarNeither my right hon. Friend nor I have visited Yorkshire for the purpose of discussing defence diversification. It is a matter for companies to decide whether, and into which markets, they should diversify. However, my Department monitors how the defence industry is responding to the defence downturn and has produced a manual, "Changing Tack: New Perspectives for Defence Suppliers", which provides guidance and advice on diversification. It is also participating in a NATO advanced studies institute on defence diversification which will be held in Scotland this July and has contributed £5,662 in support of costs. Some companies are eligible for assistance to help them adjust to changing markets, through non-sector specific UK schemes and some projects may qualify for European Community funding through the KONVER scheme.