HC Deb 10 July 1956 vol 556 c189
42. Mr. Elector Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state his plans for encouraging the development of light industry in Aberdeen.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Mr. Derek Walker-Smith)

The Board of Trade will continue to bring the existence of sites, labour supply and other facilities at Aberdeen to the notice of suitable industry seeking new quarters; but its needs must be considered in relation to those of other places.

Mr. Hughes

Does the Minister realise that in a place so far north as Aberdeen the ratio of freight charges to the value of the freight makes the provision of light industries particularly important, and would he take steps to see that such light industries are fostered there?

Mr. Walker-Smith

I will certainly bear that and all other relevant considerations in mind.