To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the available vacant factory space in development areas in the north of England.

I am aware that demand for factory space has increased very substantially over the past year in the assisted areas in the north of England, as in other areas, and that the amount of vacant space has declined. In the Government's view, it is for the private sector to respond to this increased demand wherever possible so that there is a return to a properly functioning property market. With this aim in view, English Estates has been asked to consider urgently what may be done both to get maximum benefit from its own resources and to encourage greater private sector provision. Its proposals are expected shortly.