§ 22. Mr. Gowerasked the President of the Board of Trade the latest figures for approvals of new factories and extensions in Wales and Monmouthshire; how these figures compare with Scotland and England, respectively; and whether, on a percentage basis, this shows an improvement or decline in the relative position of Wales as compared with recent years.
§ Mr. H. StraussSince the answer contains a table of figures I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Mr. GowerCan my hon. and learned Friend say whether Wales is holding its position in this matter?
§ Mr. StraussI hope that my hon. Friend will study the figures. He will understand that for this year we have the figures for the first quarter only, which is a short period on which to base an annual estimate.
§ Following are the figures:
§ The figures, which are based on estimates of value made by applicants for industrial development certificates, are as follow:
| 1952 | 1953 | 1st Quarter, 1954 | |
| £m. | £m. | £m. | |
| Wales and Monmouthshire | 1.5 | 20.8* | 1.5 |
| Scotland | 6.6 | 6.0 | 1.58 |
| England (excl. Mon.) | 43.3 | 64.2 | 26.6 |
| Great Britain | 51.4 | 91.1 | 29.68 |
| Wales as per cent, of Great Britain (value basis) | per cent. 2.9 | per cent. 22.8 | per cent. 5.0 |
| * This figure includes two very large steel projects. |