HC Deb 10 December 1959 vol 615 c738
43. Mr. Willey

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to attract new industry to Sunderland, in view of the increase of 803 in the number of unemployed in November.

Mr. Erroll

My right hon. Friend is continuing to try to interest industrialists in Sunderland, and our regional office is co-operating with the local authority in seeking new sites in the area suitable for industrial development.

Mr. Willey

Whilst appreciating the recent visit of the Minister of Labour to Sunderland, may I ask the Minister of State if he is aware that in Sunderland we are nevertheless feeling particularly neglected and that the unemployment position appears to be rapidly deteriorating? Will the hon. Gentleman call the attention of his right hon. Friend to this and ask him to consider also visiting Sunderland?

Mr. Erroll

My right hon. Friend was just as disappointed as I was that the Answer today could not be more forthcoming.