HC Deb 13 February 1945 vol 408 cc18-9
28. Mr. Price

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the industrial situation likely to arise in the Forest of Dean in the post-war period, he is taking steps to encourage new industries to take up sites in that area.

Mr. Dalton

During the war a considerable amount of new employment has been created in the Forest of Dean, and I hope that this will continue after the war. I am keeping a close watch on developments in this area.

32. Mr. Shinwell

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered a request from the Seaham Urban District Council directing attention to the need for new industries in the Seaham area; and whether he is taking any action in the matter.

Mr. Dalton

I have not yet received the communication to which my hon. Friend refers, but I shall be very glad to consider any representations which the council wish to make to me.

Mr. Shinwell

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that at present they depend exclusively on the mining industry in that area and that it is very desirable, particularly because of the need for giving employment to female labour, to provide some new industry?

Mr. Dalton

I have this matter very much in mind regarding the whole of the wide area of which my hon. Friend's constituency forms part, and I shall be glad if he will send me some suggestions at which I may look.