§ 10. Sir P. GOFFasked the President of the Board of Trade whether representations have been made to him urging the calling of an early conference of parties interested in the trade of the Tees to discuss how far work could be expedited for the relief of unemployment by the scheme proposed for increasing dock facilities at the mouth of the river Tees; and what steps he proposes to take in this matter?
45. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Prime Minister whether he has received representations from the Middlesbrough Chamber of Commerce urging the necessity of the Government initiating further public works for the unemployed, and particularly the construction of new docks for the lower reaches of the Tees; and what steps he proposes to take in the matter?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I have been asked to answer these questions.
I have received representations from the Middlesbrough Chamber of Commerce with regard to the desirability of constructing new docks in the lower reaches of the Tees. This is a matter 1269 which I have already discussed with representatives of the Tees Conservancy Commission and the London and North Eastern Railway Company. I understand that the whole question is at present under consideration by the Commissioners, and I should be quite ready to discuss the matter further with them if any points should arise on which I could be of assistance.
§ Sir P. GOFFIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that all the five local authorities are in favour of this scheme, with a view to preserving the Tees as a port in the future?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI believe that is so, but the Tees Conservancy Commissioners are the people with whom I primarily deal, and I am awaiting representations from them.
Mr. THOMSONIn view of the delay which has occurred in this matter, could not the Government see their way to taking the initiative and stirring up these local authorities, so that something may be done without waiting much longer?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe hon. Member informed me that the local authorities did not need stirring up.
§ Mr. MAXTONDoes the right hon. Gentleman think it desirable to increase our dock accommodation at a time when we are doing our best to decrease our imports?