asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what are the sites selected for Government advance factories in the Yorkshire coal-mining intermediate area; what are the dates on which building has commenced or will commence; and what is the number of jobs involved;(2) where the advance factory will be built in the Dearne Valley area; and on what date the building will commence.

Following is the information:whether he has now considered the lack of opportunities for apprenticeships in mechanical and electrical engineering in Wales, in the light of the resolution, sent to him by the right hon. Member for Cardiff, West, and passed by the Cardiff Trades' Council, concerning the reduction in the number of students enrolled in the mechanical and electrical engineering departments of the Cardiff technical colleges; and whether he will make a statement.

I have seen this resolution. Our regional policies are designed to encourage the provision of suitable new employment in the various parts of the assisted areas.