HC Deb 26 May 1938 vol 336 cc1368-9
17. Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Labour whether consideration is being given to the creation of factories and new industries at Port Clarence and Stillington, villages now derelict, where suitable sites are available and excellent transport facilities by road, rail, and sea?

Mr. E. Brown

I am not aware of any proposals of the kind referred to by the hon. Member.

Mr. Leslie

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that it would be wiser to encourage firms to erect factories in these derelict villages where housing accommodation still exists rather than to send young people elsewhere or ask them to travel to the Team Valley Estate, 20 or 40 miles away?

Mr. Brown

I would agree with the hon. Member, except that there is only a limited number of new industries, and that some can be attracted by the provision of facilities who would not be attracted in any other way.