HC Deb 18 November 1952 vol 507 c1567
22. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has yet considered, in conjunction with the Minister of Labour and the President of the Board of Trade, the recommendations in the recent Cairncross Report; and with what result.

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. James Stuart)

This Report is being carefully considered by the Government.

Mr. Hughes

Does not the Secretary of State realise that Professor Cairncross and the Scottish Council have put into his hands a lifebelt to prevent him from being submerged by the growing unemployment in Scotland, and why will he not use it immediately for that purpose?

Mr. Stuart

I realise that this is a most valuable Report. It opens up questions of long-term policy, including capital investment limits. I would also refer the hon. and learned Gentleman to the statement by the President of the Board of Trade in this House on 29th October, which is relevant.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Secretary of State aware that this Report was published about five months ago and that one of the recommendations was that there should be some diversification of industry in Central Fife? Can he indicate how long it will be before some positive steps are taken to enable women and girls in that part of Fife to get employment?

Mr. Stuart

I recognise these problems. They are difficult ones, and we are pressing on with the discussions.

Back to