asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he has considered the recommendations of the petrochemical sector working party of the National Economic Development Council that support should be considered for investment in the United Kingdom in speciality polymers of use in the engineering industry, for example, nylon 11 and 12, polyphenylene oxide, polybutylene, terephthate, &c.; and if he will make a statement.

The Government response to the petrochemical sector working party report will be given in the new year. All sections of the chemicals industry are eligible for financial assistance under the terms of the Industry Act 1972 and the Science and Technology Act 1965. Whether companies wish to apply for such support is a commercial decision.