HC Deb 13 April 1954 vol 526 cc949-50
23. Brigadier Clarke

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will do everything possible to encourage new industries to come to Portsmouth.

Mr. H. Strauss

The rate of unemployment in Portsmouth is still above the national average, but considerable industrial development is now in prospect and should make a noticeable contribution to employment there. We shall continue to watch the position, but at the moment other areas are in greater need.

Brigadier Clarke

Will my hon. and learned Friend appreciate that his Department has done a lot for Portsmouth recently but that there is still room for more, otherwise we shall be entirely dependent upon the docks?

Mr. Strauss

I agree with my hon. and gallant Friend about the improvement, and I assure him that the industrial developments which are now in prospect may make a further notable contribution to the cause that he has in mind.

Mr. Shinwell

Will the hon. and learned Gentleman give an assurance that he will do nothing for Portsmouth until he has turned his attention to improvements that are required in my constituency?