HC Deb 21 February 1961 vol 635 cc300-1
36. Mr. Symonds

asked the President of the Board of Trade why he refused permission for the building of a factory at Silloth, Cumberland.

37. Mr. Peart

asked the President of the Board of Trade what facilities were offered to Mr. Sydney Farr to promote a light engineering project in West Cumberland.

Mr. N. Macpherson

So far from refusing permission for the building of a factory for Mr. Farr at Silloth, my right hon. Friend has told him that he would consider building one for him. I understand, however, that Mr. Farr is not prepared to go ahead without financial assistance, and, as I have already told my hon. Friend the Member for Penrith and the Border (Mr. Whitelaw) unless the Board of Trade Advisory Committee makes a favourable recommendation my right hon. Friend cannot offer any.

Mr. Symonds

In view of what the Minister said about the permission for building a factory, would he, if Mr. Farr finds the building not suitable, be prepared to consider building on a smaller site at Cleator Moor'?

Mr. Macpherson

My right hon. Friend would be willing to build a factory provided that the tenant was willing to go into it, but this tenant will not go into it without financial assistance.

Mr. Peart

Is the Minister aware that at a Press interview with Mr. Farr a statement was made that reflected on the Cumberland Development Council about the possibility of a factory in Maryport or Egremont? Will he give an assurance that the Development Council has given every assistance where possible?

Mr. Macpherson

Most certainly. The Development Council has been most helpful.