asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many applications are being considered for grants under the Industry Act; and what is the estimated expansion in the number of jobs envisaged in these applications relating to West Dunbartonshire.

As at 31st December 1973, 650 applications for regional selective assistance, including grants in the assisted areas, were under consideration. The number of new jobs involved is 53,000. The figures for Scotland are 156 applications and 14,000 new jobs. Additional jobs arise from payments of regional development grants. I regret that the information relating to West Dunbartonshire is not readily available.