asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations are taking place with Sandwell metropolitan council and other local interest groups with a view to establishing an enterprise zone in the Sandwell area; and what criteria are being laid down for the establishment of such zones.

For the present at least no discussions are planned with Sandwell district council on the prospect of an enterprise zone being located in its area. Enterprise zones will be few in number as they will be experimental in character. They will be located in areas of economic decline and urban decay and will extend to up to 500 acres.