§ 27. Mr. RUSSELLasked the Minister of Labour whether, in connection with the relief schemes for the coming winter, he has the Union Quay at North Shields under consideration; whether he is aware of the urgency for the reconstruction and extension of this quay in view of the needs of the fishing industry; and whether, having regard to the distress from unemployment in that necessitous area and the importance of such a scheme from the point of view of national development, he will negotiate with the authorities concerned and help them in a special way?
§ The MINISTER of LABOUR (Mr. Shaw)I am informed that, while no formal application for assistance has been made by the local authority concerned, the matter has been discussed with representatives of the Departments able to offer assistance towards the cost of this work. It appears, however, that the local authority are unable to take advantage of such assistance as is available 3101 owing to the fact that Private Bill legislation will be necessary to enable the scheme to be carried out. For that reason, also, I am afraid that the proposed works could not be undertaken in any case during the coming winter.