§ 1. Colonel Greenwellasked the Minister without Portfolio if he is aware of the anxiety of those living in the development areas as to the future of the heavy industries; and if he will give an assurance that the Government is determined to proceed with measures to ensure a steady future for such industries.
§ The Minister without Portfolio (Sir William Jowitt)Yes, Sir. The Government will certainly do all they can to help the heavy industries to promote their efficient development.
§ Colonel GreenwellMay the answer be taken to indicate that the Government will have this subject in mind, when making the necessary post-war arrangements with other countries engaged in the heavy industries?
§ Sir W. JowittYes, Sir.
§ Colonel GreenwellDoes the right hon. and learned Gentleman appreciate that there is a very strong feeling in the development areas, in favour of an early statement on how the Government propose to ensure the future of the heavy industries?
§ Sir W. JowittI happen to know very well the particular area which the hon. and gallant Member represents, and I can assure him that its condition is ever present in my mind.
§ Mr. David GrenfellMay I ask the right hon. and learned Gentleman whether he 1599 has more than one area in mind; and will he indicate the nature of the measures which the Government are going to take?
§ Sir W. JowittI certainly have other areas in mind.
§ Mr. StephenIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that the future of the heavy industries can be secured only by their nationalisation?