To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whom he consults before making regional selective assistance available to applicants; and if he will make a statement.

The Scottish Industrial Development Advisory Board is consulted before making any substantial offer of regional selective assistance. Furthermore, and in line with practices agreed between the Scottish Office, Welsh Office and the Department of Trade and Industry, market advice is sought from the Government Department with the lead interest in the particular sector involved. Other consultations may be undertaken depending on the particular circumstances involved.