To ask the Prime Minister what is his policy in regard to selective intervention in circumstances of inward economic investment by foreign companies in (a) the regions of England, (b) Wales, (c) Scotland and (d) Northern Ireland, respectively.

Regional selective assistance (RSA) is available to encourage inward investment in the assisted areas of England, Wales and Scotland. Investors with a choice of location are offered the same level of RSA to go to assisted areas of equal status. A similar scheme operates in Northern Ireland but higher levels of assistance are available and may be offered.