19.
asked the Secretary of State for Wales in what way he has changed the method in which he applies the criteria for considering applications in Wales for assistance under section 7 of the Industry Act since he took office.
As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry announced on 17 July 1979, regional selective assistance under section 7 of the Industry Act is now to be provided only where it is necessary to enable projects to go ahead, particular attention being paid to the provision of more productive and more secure jobs. I am applying these criteria to applications for support for projects in Wales. Applications are still subject to financial and commercial appraisals and are referred to the Welsh industrial development advisory board.