HC Deb 04 March 1954 vol 524 cc1331-2
3. Mr. Gower

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ask the Council of Wales to study the present position of trade at the South Wales ports of Barry, Cardiff, Newport and Swansea, and make a report.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

The Council's Industrial Panel has been giving consideration to the situation in the South Wales ports and still has this matter under review. My colleagues and I will be glad to consider any advice or report on the position which the Council may decide to submit.

Mr. Gower

I thank my right hon. and learned Friend for his reply, but in his future consideration of the subject, with special reference to Barry, will he take into account the fact that in prewar years the trade of Barry was peculiarly and particularly built up on coal exports? Will he also take account of the fact that many people have now been attracted from the work in the port of Barry into other industries and if they are ever required again it might be very difficult to get them back?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I will certainly take those points into account.

Mr. G. Thomas

Is the Home Secretary in touch with the Cardiff Port Development Committee, where he will find all the necessary information without calling in agriculturists from the North?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I will willingly keep in touch with anybody on this very difficult problem.