HC Deb 24 May 1937 vol 324 cc17-8
29. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Minister of Labour whether any factories have opened on the Team Valley trading estate; and how many workpeople are engaged?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead)

On 20th May one factory on the Team Valley Trading Estate was occupied by the tenant, but manufacturing production had not begun. It is expected that six further factories will be ready for occupation by tenants by the end of the month.

Mr. Shinwell

How many workpeople are likely to be engaged as a result of the operation of this estate? Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that it is now rather more than 18 months since the scheme was started?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

I am aware that the scheme has been started some time, and I consider that admirable progress has been made. With regard to the number of employes, I am afraid that it is not possible to say.

Mr. Shinwell

Does the hon. and gallant Gentleman regard the construction of one factory in regard to which it is not possible to say how many workpeople are to be employed, as admirable?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

Certainly, because the layout of the trading estate, the erection of railway sidings, and the construction of roads and buildings necessarily take a considerable time.