HC Deb 11 July 1938 vol 338 cc926-7
77. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to reply to the representations made to him and/or the Home Office regarding the entry into the United Kingdom of persons to establish and operate hosiery factories, particularly in Scotland; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?

Sir S. Hoare

As I have already stated, one foreign firm has been allowed to start a knitwear factory in one of the Special Areas. On the general question of allowing foreigners to come here for the purpose of starting factories, each case is subjected to careful examination, and attention is given to the various considerations which arise, including such matters as the location of the proposed factory, the prospect of increased employment for British workers and the question whether advantage is likely to accrue to this country from the diversion to this country of trade which would otherwise be done abroad. Moreover, in accordance with what I believe is the general desire of the House, special consideration is given to any such applicant who has been forced to leave his own country for racial or political reasons.

Mr. Gibson

In considering these applications, will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind that although there is a large number of women engaged in the merino mills in Greenock, there is still a large number of young women available there for such employment?

Sir S. Hoare

That is one of the facts which, obviously, has to be taken into account.

Mr. Mathers

In considering such applications, are wages standards also taken into account, because there is a belief that in the depressed areas certain industries are set up which undercut those in other parts of the country?

Sir S. Hoare

There would be no foundation for a suspicion of that kind. Wages would, obviously, have to be taken into account.