HC Deb 02 February 1961 vol 633 cc1166-7
12. Mr. Gower

asked the President of the Board of Trade, in view of the proposal to close the supply reserve depot at Barry, what steps he will take to replace the depot by an industrial firm or undertaking.

Mr. Maudling

As the depot is not expected to close until October, 1963, it is too early to say how it should best be disposed of in the national interest

Mr. Gower

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate that this will be the third such closure of a Government-owned depot in recent years? To that extent, is it not completely at variance with Government policy for bringing industry to the area?

Mr. Maudling

The whole situation of employment in South Wales has radically improved in recent years.