HC Deb 27 February 1947 vol 433 cc2255-6
19. Mr. Keeling

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a firm of printers who work for exporters and to whom, over seven months ago, the Barking Corporation, with the approval of the Ministry of Health, offered a site for a new factory in an area planned for industrial development, have ever since been unable to get a decision from the Control of Factory Premises Branch of his Department; and whether, in the interests of his production drive, he will now approve the application.

Sir S. Cripps

My regional controller is in touch with the firm about their proposal, which involves a substantial expansion over their prewar factory space. In view of the claims of blitzed firms in the printing industry, this proposal is not acceptable. A project to replace the amount of factory space which they will have to vacate will be sympathetically considered. I am writing to the hon. Member in greater detail about the case.

Mr. Keeling

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman say why it has taken a Question on the Order Paper to bring this long-drawn-out affair to a head?

Sir S. Cripps

I am afraid that is quite incorrect. It has not come to a head, because the firm have not yet decided what they want to do.

Mr. Stephen

Will the Minister invite this firm to come to the West of Scotland?

Sir S. Cripps

Perhaps I shall invite them to go somewhere else if it goes on any longer.