§ 1. Commander Keransasked the President of the Board of Trade what further prospects he has in mind to assist the expansion of industries in the Hartlepools, which now has the highest unemployment rates in the North-East.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. F. J. Erroll)I am aware of the continuing high unemployment in the Hartlepools and I shall continue in my efforts to steer new industry to the area. Since my hon. and gallant Friend asked a similar Question on 3rd August, 1961, two firms have decided to set up in production in the Hartlepools and several others have been shown sites in the area.
§ Commander KeransI appreciate the efforts my right hon. Friend is making in this direction, but nevertheless the figure of unemployment in the Hartlepools is tragic, having risen from 3.8 per cent. to 6 per cent. at present. We have to face the reduction in the Reserve Fleet next year, with a further hundred or so unemployed to come. We still have the bulge ahead of us. There are still large areas in the Hartlepools Industrial Estate which are ready for expansion. May I express the hope that my right hon. Friend will continue his efforts in this direction?
§ Mr. ErrollYes. I am glad to be able to reassure my hon. and gallant Friend that we will do all we possibly can and will continue our efforts.