§ 20 and 21. Mr. Shinwellasked the President of the Board of Trade (1) why an industrial firm whose original intention was to promote development of its undertaking and employ several thousand men in the new town of Peterlee decided to switch to another part of County Durham; to what extent his Department was consulted; and what advice it gave to the firm;
(2) what measures he has taken to encourage industrial firms to use the facilities of the new town of Peterlee for industrial development.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonThe Board of Trade brings the facilities offered in all development districts in County Durham, including those in Peterlee, to the attention of firms which are considering settling in the County. I cannot say why a particular firm decides to go to one area rather than another.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware of what has happened concerning this industry having switched over to another part of County Durham? While I have no desire to prevent industry from going to any other part of County Durham where there is excessive unemployment, may I ask whether there is any reason why the hopes of the citizens of Peterlee should have been frustrated by this switch? Does the Board of Trade know what has happened and has any advice been taken on the matter? Are we not to be considered at all?
§ Mr. MacphersonThe Board of Trade normally shows more than one site to a company or an applicant for a site, and it is up to the company itself to decide between them.
§ Mr. ShinwellThis area has been persistently neglected. Has the Board of Trade made up its mind that it will do nothing for the area? If so, why does not the hon. Gentleman tell us and not deceive us in this matter?
§ Mr. MacphersonThere is no question of deceiving the right hon. Gentleman in this matter. The firm was taken to see the site in Peterlee and it was perfectly open to the firm to choose that site rather than the other.