HC Deb 05 December 2001 vol 376 cc301-2W
Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps the Government are taking to secure investment in Lancashire in(a) manufacturing and (b) service sector jobs. [19921]

Alan Johnson

The Government office for the north-west, the North West Development Agency and Small Business Service work in partnership with other agencies, business and local authorities to provide support and advice to investors in these two sectors, and to ensure that an attractive range of skills is available. A number of schemes, including Regional Selective Assistance, the Enterprise Grant Scheme, SMART awards and Regional.

Mr. Wilson

The purchase prices BNFL paid in these acquisitions took account of the assets and liabilities associated with the individual business acquired.

Mr. Gibb

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what savings have been made in Magnox-related liability estimates since the Government transferred its shareholding in Magnox Electric to BNFL. [19253]

Mr. Wilson

BNFL's liabilities, including those of Magnox Electric, are stated in its annual report and accounts. BNFL's liabilities have shown a net increase in the period since the acquisition of Magnox Electric. Magnox liabilities account for over 85 per cent. of the BNFL group liabilities.

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