HC Deb 30 November 1948 vol 458 c1800
26. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress is being made in the plans for a new town for miners in Ayrshire.

Mr. Woodburn

Comprehensive plans for the expanding central Ayrshire coalfield, including the proposed new town at Drongan, are now being worked out in detail by my Department in consultation with the County Council and the National Coal Board. I expect to be in a position to announce early next year the result of these investigations.

Mr. Hughes

Will the Minister give us an assurance that these new towns in Scotland will not be curtailed under the capital investment cuts?

Mr. Woodburn

The development of this particular new town is not dependent upon the capital investment cuts but on the time taken and the progress made in opening up the new coalfield.