§ 21. Mr. Patrick Maitlandasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he has taken to bring to the notice of industrialists the availability of subsidised housing that is now empty, and suitable industrial sites, at Douglas, Lanarkshire.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Mr. John Rodgers)As my hon. Friend was told on 7th May, we will be able to talk to industrialists as soon as the Development Plan for the industrial sites in Douglas has been approved.
§ Mr. MaitlandCan my hon. Friend say whether it is possible to hurry up the Lanark County Council in deciding about these sites? Is he aware that when recently I wrote round to all the branch offices of the F.B.I. and also to the chambers of commerce, none of them had heard about Douglas, and therefore there is great urgency in pressing on with this matter?
§ Mr. RodgersWe recognise that there is urgency in this matter, but it is one for the county council and not for my Ministry.
§ Mr. T. FraserHas not the Board of Trade made it clear that the Government will not build factories in this area, which is in South Lanarkshire, but only 797 in North Lanarkshire which is some distance from Douglas?
§ Mr. RodgersWhat I have said in reply to a previous question is that if any firm applies for assistance under the Distribution of Industry Act, 1958, and can show that it would attract labour from a D.A.T.A.C. area adjacent, we would consider that matter.
§ Mr. MaitlandIs my hon. Friend aware that we are very grateful for the attention he is giving to the matter?