HC Deb 25 April 1940 vol 360 cc375-6
76. Mr. Tomlinson

asked the Minister of Supply whether he will reconsider the question of establishing a large industrial plant in one of the few unspoiled beauty spots in Lancashire; and whether he will see that the works are erected in one of the numerous places in the county where the countryside is already spoiled?

Colonel Llewellin

Consideration is still being given to the site for this factory. It is difficult to find sites with the characteristics required for factories of this type, but intensive surveys have been and are being made.

Mr. Tomlinson

Has the Minister been in consultation with the Lancashire Development Committee, who have some 200 sites?

Colonel Llewellin

I will look into that point.

Sir John Haslam

Does the hon. and gallant Member realise that feeling is very keen in Lancashire about this subject because of the historical and religious aspects of the situation? Will he study the feelings of the people of Lancashire before he allows this project to go forward?

Colonel Llewellin

Certainly, Sir. Representations have been made to me privately by my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Clitheroe (Sir W. Brass), in whose constituency this is, and I immediately sent some persons from the Ministry to make extensive surveys to see whether some other site cannot be found.

Mr. Edmund Harvey

Would the Minister undertake to consult the Council for the Preservation of Rural England in this and similar cases?

Mr. Tomlinson

As this is the last remaining unspoilt part of Lancashire, may I ask that it should not be devoted to this purpose?

Mr. G. Griffiths

If you want a site, come to the Hemsworth division, and we will find you one.