asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will make a statement regarding his Department's dealings with Dow Chemicals, concerning its stated intention to set up a factory in the constituency of Brigg and Scunthorpe and its subsequent change of mind.

Officials in my Department were notified some time ago by Dow Chemical Company of its proposal to establish a polystyrene plant at East Halton in South Humberside. Because of a change in the market situation Dow recently advised us that it will not now be proceeding with the development and that it has withdrawn its application for planning permission.