§ Mr. WhittingdaleTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the economic impact of the closure of Bradwell Power Station. [106179]
§ Mrs. Liddell[holding answer 24 January 2000]: An assessment was prepared in 1998 by PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) who were commissioned by Essex Training and Enterprise Council (TEC) and key partner organisations to undertake a review on the impact of Bradwell Power Station upon the local economy, and of the mechanisms which might be put in place to counter any effects of the closure of the plant. No further assessment has been made by the Government.
Arrangements are being made with Essex TEC for a copy of the PWC report to be placed in the Library of the House.
§ Mr. WhittingdaleTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assistance from public funds will be available to mitigate the economic effects of the closure of Bradwell Power Station; and if he will make a statement. [106180]
§ Mrs. Liddell[holding answer 24 January 2000]: Maldon has been designated by the Government as an Enterprise Grants Area. Under the Enterprise Grant Scheme grants up to £75,000 may be paid in support of new investment by business employing up to 250 people. Investment by SMEs in the vicinity of Bradwell may therefore be eligible for financial assistance.
The Small Business Service franchisee for Essex and the Learning and Skills Council for Essex will need to consider whether to make available special assistance for business start-up and for retraining to help people made redundant when Bradwell closes in 2002.