HC Deb 02 March 1954 vol 524 cc990-1
17. Mr. C. Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will designate Anglesey as a Development Area in view of the fact that unemployment there has now risen to 10.2 per cent, of the insured population.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

The Departments concerned are making a special survey of the unemployment in Anglesey. When this survey is completed, I shall write to the hon. Member.

Mr. Hughes

Does the right hon. Gentleman recall the tests which were laid down in the White Paper on Development Areas in 1948? Does he not consider that Anglesey now fulfils the conditions laid down in the White Paper?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I would rather await the result of a careful survey which is being made of the subject before answering the hon. Gentleman's question.

Mr. G. Thomas

Is the Minister aware that the problem has not appeared overnight but has existed a long time and has grown in the last two years? Can he indicate how long we shall have to wait before he makes up his mind to do anything?

Mr. Nabarro

Six years of Socialism.

Mr. Thorneycroft

It would be wise, anyhow, to await the result of the survey.