§ Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLE(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister, what special measures, if any, are proposed by the Government to assist the depressed areas, especially the North-East Coast, and if it is intended to put into operation all or any of the recommendations of the special commissioners for those areas?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe Government have made a close examination of the reports of the commissioners and of all other relevant factors. The commissioners—with the full co-operation and support of the Government—have been increasing and extending their activities in accordance with the terms of the Special Areas (Development and Improvement) Act, with results which are likely to be beneficial and, cumulatively, of considerable importance.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether is the intention of the Government before this Parliament is dissolved to put before the country any definite and concrete proposals in regard to the distressed areas?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat does not arise from my answer.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us how many of the hundreds of new factories referred to in the "New London Pictorial" are being erected on the North-East Coast?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am afraid that I never read that paper.
§ Mr. MORGAN JONESCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the answer that he has just given, indicating extended operations under the Act referred to, indicates that the Government propose to increase the sum of £2,000,000 already allocated to the distressed areas, and, if so, are they taking steps to secure that additional sum before the Prorogation?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have nothing at this moment to add to what I have said.