HC Deb 10 July 1956 vol 556 cc198-9
61. Mr. Albu

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government from what districts he expects the workers to be drawn for the new factory for the manufacture of motor vehicles which he has agreed should be built in the Luton-Dunstable area.

Mr. Powell

The recruitment of labour will be primarily a matter for the firm; but I hope that arrangements will be made, with its co-operation, to ensure that so far as possible the labour will be recruited from London, and from people with a housing need.

Mr. Albu

Is the Minister aware that there is already a considerable shortage of labour in the new towns due partly to the fact that the motor industries in the Luton-Dunstable area are drawing labour away from them? Does he consider this to be a sensible planning arrangement?

Mr. Powell

On the whole, the extension of industry in the new towns is slightly in advance of the expansion of housing, but the desirability of providing housing in the area for the labour that will be required in the Dunstable and Luton area is fully recognised.