HC Deb 13 March 1940 vol 358 cc1204-5
86. Mr. David Adams

asked the Minister of Supply whether he has considered the resolutions from the Consett Urban District Council requesting that special consideration should be given to the claims of the North of England, and particularly those of Durham County, in the allocation of war-time and other industries; and whether he proposes to accede to this application?

Colonel Llewellin

My right hon. Friend has received a copy of the resolutions referred to. It is the practice of all Government contracting Departments to give preference, other considerations permitting, in the placing of orders to Special Areas as defined in the Special Areas Act, and the North of England will not be overlooked. I would add, as regards the Ministry of Supply, that certain new productive capacity is being planned in Durham County, which will involve substantial additional employment, but the hon. Member will not expect me to give details.

Mr. Adams

Will the Minister assure us that he and his right hon. Friend realise that this is a matter of paramount importance to the North of England, and that they are not overlooking, not merely the present needs but the future needs, of that part of the country?

Colonel Llewellin

When I tell the hon. Member that we are putting down works in the county of Durham, that, I think, should be satisfactory.

Mr. Adams

Large works?

Mr. Lawson

Is the hon. and gallant Member aware that the works which are being planned for County Durham are in an agricultural area, far away from the industrial area and from the houses which are necessary for the workers?

Colonel Llewellin

Some of the works we build cannot be in close proximity to dwelling-houses.