HC Deb 29 January 1959 vol 598 cc1236-7
19 and 20. Miss Herbison

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) what action he is taking to attract industries which could provide alternative work in the Shotts, Salsburgh, Cleland area for those miners who will be without employment in the coal industry when the proposed mass closures of collieries is proceed with;

(2) in view of the redundancy in the steel works at Gartcosh and refractory brick works at Glenboig, what steps he is taking to attract industrial concerns which would provide alternative employment in this area.

Sir D. Eccles

I announced last Thursday that the Board of Trade is prepared to build factories for firms willing to go to North Lanarkshire. Every effort is being made to find such firms.

Miss Herbison

Is the Minister aware that for a number of years Lanarkshire Members have been warning the Government, and particularly various Presidents of the Board of Trade, what would happen in this very area when the pits closed? Is he aware that they have been urging the Government to take steps to plan beforehand? Since the Government have done just nothing at all in the matter, surely they must accept special responsibility for getting other industries into the area. Is the right hon. Gentleman also aware that this reply that the Government are encouraging industry has been given to us for years and it has been of no avail for these men who are now faced with unemployment?

Sir D. Eccles

I think that the plan for extension by Colvilles is a very major step and will help Lanarkshire.

21. Miss Herbison

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the proposed extension to the Cummins Engine Company factory at Shotts, which is Government-owned, will commence.

Sir D. Eccles

I hope very soon. Sketch plans are being prepared and we have just received the first general estimate of the cost.

Miss Herbison

Can the Minister say what "very soon" means? Many people are awaiting this development, particularly because of the closing of these pits.

Sir D. Eccles

I can give the hon. Lady an assurance that we have put on all the pressure that we can; it is only a matter of days since we have received the preliminary estimates.