HC Deb 21 January 1958 vol 580 cc869-70
11. Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland, in view of the present state of employment in the light castings industry in the Falkirk area, what steps he intends to take to meet the situation.

Mr. N. Macpherson

My right hon. Friend is in close touch with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service about the employment problems arising in the light castings industry: and also with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade who will bear in mind the needs of the area for suitable new industries.

Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

Does not the hon. Gentleman realise that every year in this industry there has been a depression, beginning about this time and continuing until the late summer, when men regularly work short time? In spite of discussions between different Departments, nothing seems to have been done from the Government end.

Mr. Macpherson

Industry within the area as a whole has been adapting itself with very great success. In fact, some two dozen developments have taken place in this area since the war.