HC Deb 28 February 1961 vol 635 cc1360-1
28. Mr. Bence

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many applications he has received under the Distribution of Industries Act for the setting up of new industries in the county of Dunbarton; how many have been accepted; and how many have been rejected.

Mr. N. Macpherson

I assume the hon. Member intended his Question to refer to the Local Employment Act, 1960. Eight, of which four have been offered assistance, the remaining four still being under consideration.

Mr. Bence

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that is a very disappointing Answer? For months, Scottish hon. Members have had statements by various organisations that there are 20, 30 or 40 new industries being established and new employment being created, but wherever one goes in Scotland one can never find them. Is he also aware that in the whole of the County of Dunbartonshire, there are only four? Is not this really unsatisfactory?

Mr. Macpherson

The hon. Member will bear in mind that the Local Employment Act has been in force only since 1st April, 1960. In addition, there are extensions involved, as well as new enterprises.

29. Mr. Bence

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many new industries have been established in the county of Dunbartonshire since the passing of the Distribution of Industry Act, 1959.

Mr. N. Macpherson

Since the beginning of 1959, two new firms have been established in Dunbartonshire, two further projects are under construction and seven more firms will, it is hoped, shortly be setting up there.

Mr. Bence

In view of the new town at Cumbernauld and the development of the Burgh of Kirkintilloch as a result of the overspill agreement with Glasgow, I hope the hon. Gentleman will make a stronger effort—[HON. MEMBERS: "Question."]—I am asking a question—

Mr. Speaker

Order. This is Question Time and the hon. Member's observation must, as a minimum, be couched in an interrogatory form.

Mr. Bence

Will the hon. Gentleman push ahead much faster to encourage new industries to come to the new town of Cumbernauld and the Burgh of Kirkintilloch?

Mr. Macpherson

We are doing our best, but I am sure the House and the hon. Member will realise that we can try to steer into the development districts only such industries as come to us for industrial development certificates.