HC Deb 08 November 1934 vol 293 cc1247-8
5. Mr. SUTCLIFFE

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in making a record of the depressed areas of the country, he has taken into consideration, or will take into consideration, the position of certain districts in Lancashire where, owing to the decline in the cotton industry and the consequent removal of machinery from mills, there is acute unemployment, and no form of employment seems possible except by the introduction of entirely new industries?

Mr. STANLEY

I am, of course, aware of the grave unemployment which exists in some districts of Lancashire, but I should deprecate any suggestion that the position of that county is comparable with that of the special areas which have recently been surveyed.

Mr. SUTCLIFFE

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that all possible measures are being taken to introduce other industries?

Mr. RHYS DAVIES

Although the whole of Lancashire may not fall into the same category as Durham arid South Wales, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are patches of Lancashire which do fall into that category?

Mr. STANLEY

I know that there are certain places in Lancashire where unemployment is grave, but I could not agree to the description of Lancashire as a derelict area.

Mr. TINKER

Is any survey made of districts where industries are likely to decline, in order to be ready to meet the situation?

Mr. STANLEY

I am afraid I did not catch the point of the hon. Member's question, perhaps he would discuss it with me afterwards.

32. Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLE (for Mr. DENVILLE)

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, with a view to alleviating distress on the North-East Coast, he is yet able to make an announcement with regard to the building on the Tyneside of the sister ship to the "Queen Mary"?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave on Thursday last to the hon. Member for Durham (Mr. McKeag).