HC Deb 10 March 1949 vol 462 cc1379-80
29. Mr. Roland Robinson

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can now announce the plans for the use of the Squires Gate factory at Blackpool.

Mr. H. Wilson

I am afraid I am still not in a position to say what will be the ultimate use of the main factory buildings. A portion of the factory covering some 200,000 sq. ft. has, however, been allocated to the Ministry of Supply for vehicle repair work.

Mr. Robinson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are nearly 4,000 people out of work in this area and that it has taken his Department nearly two years to make up its mind on the problem?

Mr. Wilson

I am aware of nothing of the kind. What I am aware of is the fact that the local authority were unwilling to consider the proposals put before them for finding re-employment for this area some two years ago, and secondly, I am aware of the fact that the Board of Trade have no powers to direct private industry into Blackpool. I do not know whether the hon. Member wants to suggest that we should take those powers.

Mr. Robinson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the question of what is an economic rent for this factory lies within the power of the Board of Trade?

Mr. Wilson

That has not been the difficulty throughout these very difficult two years.