HC Deb 15 July 1958 vol 591 c978
3. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action has been taken, since the meeting he had with a deputation on the subject of Swynnerton, to encourage manufacturing concerns to open in the City of Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire.

Sir D. Eccles

We have continued to bring to the attention of suitable firms the facilities available in North Staffordshire, including Stoke-on-Trent. A number of them have visited the area, but none has yet agreed to set up there.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Has the President of the Board of Trade made a personal study of the Board of Trade Journal of 11th July, 1958, from which he will see the industrial building that has taken place in Great Britain? Has not the time arrived when the national interests, especially productive cost interests, should be put first? Also, was not it suicidal economic policy to allow the expansion of the great Michelin Tyre Company Limited's works to be taken away from Stoke-on-Trent, and may we have a guarantee that in future that sort of thing will not happen?

Sir D. Eccles

I always read the Board of Trade Journal. I shall certainly consider the second point that the hon. Gentleman made.