asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make it his policy to refuse Government financial assistance to vehicle component manufacturers based in the west midlands who seek to set up manufacturing subsidiaries adjacent to the Nissan factory in Sunderland; and if he will make a statement.

The purpose of Government financial assistance is to encourage increased economic growth, both generally and in the assisted areas. The Government believe, however, that the final choice of location for new investment should remain a matter for the commercial judgment of the companies concerned.