HC Deb 22 June 1950 vol 476 cc1454-5
17. Mr. Manuel

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has made any decision for the early location of light industry in the burgh of Irvine in order to arrest the rising unemployment figures in that area.

Mr. H. Wilson

Negotiations are proceeding for the occupation of the Ministry of Supply depot at Irvine by a firm which will employ a substantial number of people. Other projects are also being examined. In these circumstances, I do not consider it is necessary at the present time to take further steps to attract more industry to this district where unemployment is lower than in most other parts of the Scottish Development Area.