HC Deb 21 July 1959 vol 609 cc1063-4
48. Mr. McInnes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will indicate the number of firms who have removed from Glasgow to overspill receiving areas under the Town Development (Scotland) Act, 1957, since June, 1957, to date.

Mr. J. N. Browne

One medium size firm and we believe four small ones.

Mr. McInnes

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that we regard it as a most remarkable achievement by the Government that they have attracted or prevailed upon only five firms in more than two years to go to overspill areas? How long does he expect it will take to get the 200 or 300 firms which are needed to deal with the problem of Glasgow's overspill?

Mr. Browne

If the hon. Gentleman had phrased his Question a little differently, the answer would have been about twenty-three firms, because in addition to those which I have already mentioned, two substantial firms expect to occupy new premises in September, three have made firm arrangements to move, seven are in active consultation with local authorities, and six are known to be actively making plans.

Mr. McInnes

Is it in order to phrase Questions to suit the Government Front Bench?