HC Deb 05 June 1956 vol 553 cc868-9
33. Mr. F. Noel-Baker

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to encourage London firms to open factories in Swindon.

Mr. Walker-Smith

The expansion of Swindon is designed to relieve congestion in the London area, and the Board of Trade try to interest suitable firms in the advantages which Swindon can offer.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Is the hon. and learned Member aware that, although Swindon has been very successful in getting a large number of Londoners and other immigrants settled there, only one London firm has so far moved to Swindon, and that is a firm employing only 80 workers? Is it not time that his Department tried to do more about it?

Mr. Walker-Smith

The hon. Member will appreciate that we have no power to compel London firms to go to Swindon, but he can be assured that no application of any London firm to go to Swindon has been refused. Unfortunately, the distance makes it difficult for some of the smaller firms to transport their undertakings to Swindon, but we will certainly continue to do all we can in this direction.