HC Deb 02 March 1954 vol 524 cc1011-2
62. Mr. Fernyhough

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many schemes for water and sewerage have been approved under Section 3 of the Distribution of Industry Act, 1945, in the North-East Development Area since the issue of Circular 54/52.

Mr. Marples

Grant-aid has been given to two sewerage schemes in this area which were before my right hon. Friend when the Circular was issued; and grant has been approved in principle for one very large water scheme of exceptional industrial importance.

Mr. Fernyhough

In view of the growing unemployment in most Development Areas and the fact that Circular 54/52 retarded development, will the hon. Gentleman now consider withdrawing it and thus give to those in Development Areas the feeling that they have not been written off once more by the Conservatives?

Mr. Marples

My right hon. Friend will consider any representation the hon. Gentleman cares to make in connection with relieving unemployment through water or sewerage schemes in these areas. If the hon. Gentleman will be kind enough to make them, my right hon. Friend will consider them.

Mr. Fernyhough

Will such schemes rank for additional grant?

Mr. Marples

I think we had better consider the merits of the case when the case is made as persuasively as undoubtedly the hon. Gentleman will make it.

63. Mr. Fernyhough

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will now withdraw Circular 54/52 and restore sewerage and water schemes in Development Areas for grant under Section 3 of the Distribution of Industry Act, 1945.

Mr. Marples

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 11th February to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Caerphilly (Mr. Ness Edwards).