asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state in respect of subhead P. (Technical Assistance) of his Department's Estimate for 1960-61 (a) the nature of the projects for which grants are made and the qualifying conditions therefor and (b) the number and cost of such grants made in 1959-60.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Technical Assistance Grants.
27.
In the main, the projects assisted are (a) the engagement by industrial firms of consultants to advise them on matters relating to productive efficiency and (b) minerals exploration and development in appropriate cases. In general, the grants are on the basis of one-third of the cost in the case of projects under (a) and one-half of the cost in the case of projects under (b).
Applicants for grants are in each case required to submit full particulars as to the nature and scope of the project, estimated dates of commencement and termination, details as to its estimated cost and other necessary information.
The total number of grants made in the financial year 1959/60 was 50 and the aggregate amount of the grants was £41,980.