HC Deb 15 November 1956 vol 560 cc1111-2
15. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many Government-financed factories in the Scottish Development Area he has approved since 1st June, 1956;and how many have been deferred.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

Three and two, respectively, Sir.

17. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the President of the Board of Trade what consultations he has had with the Scottish Council (Development and Industry) regarding the provision of factories to rent in Scotland.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

If the hon. Member has in mind a scheme which the Scottish Council has been considering to interest private capital in factory building in Scotland, the answer is that, whilst I have not been formally consulted, my Department has been kept informed.

Mr. Thomson

Is the Minister aware that the Scottish Council opposes the Government's policy of stopping the building of Government-financed factories in Scotland and regards the scheme of which he talks as a second-best? Is he aware that the Government have turned down the most authoritative advice in Scotland on this matter, as far as we can see in order to provide some further profit for private enterprise?

Mr. Thorneycroft

In so far as the Scottish Council is encouraging private capital to go into Scotland, that is something which everybody in all parts of the House would support.

Mr. Woodburn

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that skilled labour is still being drained out of Scotland and is leaving behind a great block of unskilled labour which cannot be employed because of the absence of balance? That has caused a higher rate of unemployment in Scotland than is normal throughout the country. There is very strong evidence—almost proof—that firms are willing to go to Scotland and provide work for workers if these factories are provided. Will he give very considerable and careful attention to the suggestion of the Scottish Council that these advance factories should be built?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I will bear all these matters in mind. Meanwhile, the attraction of private capital will help rather than hinder these matters.

Mr. Woodburn

There is no question but that the Scottish Council can attract private capital, but private capital cannot go there, although it is willing, because of the absence of the factories.

Captain Duncan

Will my right hon. Friend arrange for the Front Bench opposite to be given lessons on how to ask supplementary questions by the hon. Member for South Ayrshire (Mr. Emrys Hughes)?