HC Deb 03 November 1959 vol 612 cc828-9
3. Miss Herbison

asked the President of the Board of Trade the causes of the delay in the commencement of the extension at Cummins Diesel Engine Company, Shotts; and when this work will begin

Mr. Maudling

Difficulties have arisen over acquisition of the land required, in the light of which the firm is again considering its forward plans. I am not yet able to say when work will start.

Miss Herbison

Is the President of the Board of Trade aware that this matter has been going on for a very long time and that there have been serious frustrations over the acquiring of the land? Should not the President of the Board of Trade immediately make a compulsory purchase of the land, so that work can be brought to an area which is badly in need of work?

Mr. Maudling

No, I do not think that compulsory purchase should be applied in this case. Here is a case where negotiation is going on between a firm and the farmer who owns the land, and I do not think we should interfere.

Miss Herbison

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that there are many hundreds of people involved as against one farmer and his desires?

Mr. Maudling

I do not think the fact that a person is in a minority means that he should be denied his proper rights.