asked the President of the Board of Trade in how many cases financial assistance has been given under the Local Employment Acts and the Industrial Development Act, in order to prevent the closure of an existing factory; in which regions; if he is satisfied with the results; and if he will make a statement.

The following direct grants were given:

The Board of Trade have given assistance under the Local Employment Acts (including Part II of the Industrial Development Act) in 60 cases in order to maintain existing employment. I cannot say how many of these involved the danger of closure of the factory.Undertakings in all development areas were included in this assistance and I am satisfied that in the great majority of the cases the undertakings are continuing to provide employment.