HC Deb 03 November 1959 vol 612 cc838-9
18. Mr. Slater

asked the President of the Board of Trade the prospects of developing new sites on the Aycliffe Trading Estate; and what consultations have taken place between his Department and the Newton Aycliffe Development Corporation regarding sites for industrial development in the new town.

Mr. Maudling

Sites are available on and near the trading estate for development by suitable industry. No consultations have taken place between my Department and the Newton Aycliffe Development Corporation about sites for industry within the new town.

Mr. Slater

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that great concern is being felt within the area of the new town of Newton Aycliffe? Is he aware that in reply to a Question from me the Minister of Labour said yesterday that there are only forty-four unfilled vacancies on the trading estate? Is he aware that, as a consequence, people from the new town, including young people leaving school at the moment, cannot find employment in the west of the County of Durham?

Mr. Maudling

I gather that over 150 acres of land for industrial development are available in or around the trading estate. I should be happy to see the corporation of the new town if they wish to discuss the matter with me.