asked the Secretary of State for Industry how many companies have claimed grants under the footwear industry assistance scheme; how much money has been made available under the scheme; when the scheme is due to terminate; and whether he proposes to extend it.

To date, under the footwear scheme, 416 applications have been received from 174 companies and assistance of £2·8 million has been offered. The scheme closes for applications on 31 March 1980, with a further 12 months allowed for completion of projects. It is estimated that the allocation of £4·5 million will be fully taken up under these arrangements. There are no plans for an extension.