HC Deb 10 December 1959 vol 615 c737
38. Mr. Swingler

asked the President of the Board of Trade what progress has been made, in consultation with the local authorities concerned, towards finding alternative uses for the site and buildings of the Swynnerton Royal Ordnance Factory.

Mr. Erroll

Possible alternative uses of the factory, including those in conjunction with the local authorities concerned, are still being examined.

Mr. Swingler

These talks have been dragging on for a very long time. Is it not possible for the hon. Gentleman's Department to do something to speed up its consideration in view of the fact that the need for new employment in North Staffordshire is getting no less urgent?

Mr. Erroll

As a matter of fact, the need for employment in North Staffordshire is not so urgent as it was. The figure in November was 1.8 per cent., which is lower than that for Great Britain as a whole. The decontamination of a former filling factory is taking place and the site is being got ready. I am as sorry as the hon. Gentleman that the discussions and investigations are taking so long.

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