§ 25. Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the need for a strip mill in Scotland; and what steps he is taking to encourage its provision.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonI am aware of the strong desire in many quarters that a strip mill should be set up in Scotland and of the benefits that might be expected to follow from it. This is a matter for the industry itself in the first place, but my right hon. Friend is in touch with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade and my noble Friend the Minister of Power on the subject.
§ Mr. RankinCan we take it that the Secretary of State is going to use all his influence to see that the process which has been developing in recent years in Scotland—particularly under this Government—is reversed and that, for a change, instead of industry leaving Scotland, we may see a major project coming to Scotland?
§ Mr. MacphersonMy right hon. Friend will always be enthusiastic in all good causes.