HC Deb 12 December 1962 vol 669 cc405-7
36. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Labour what was the number of unemployed persons in Sunderland on the latest available date; what was the corresponding figure for the previous year; and what factors have caused the increase.

Mr. Whitelaw

6,537 persons were unemployed in the Sunderland area on 12th November, compared with 3,923 on 13th November, 1961. The main industries affected by increases were shipbuilding and ship-repairing, engineering and electrical goods and construction.

Mr. Willey

Does the Parliamentary Secretary recognise that these are very grave figures indeed? This reveals a very black position in Sunderland. Can he say why the Government have done nothing about this, why we were taken off the list of aided areas, why no anticipation of this position was shown by the Government, and when we are to get some help?

Mr. Whitelaw

I agree with the hon. Gentleman that these figures disclose a serious position, but be knows very well that the Government have done a considerable amount for Sunderland. The facilities of the Local Employment Act have just been restored to the area, and my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade has announced a proposal to build an advance factory there. In addition, same 3,800 jobs are expected to arise from new buildings and other developments.

Mr. P. Williams

Does my hon. Friend recognise that while mast people welcome the actions of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, it is not necessarily true that these actions in releasing credit and other matters will be of direct or immediate help or that even in the remote future they will help the heavy industrial areas?

Mr. Whitelaw

I should have thought that the measures taken to expand the economy as a whole were bound to have an effect throughout the economy.

Mr. Willey

Will the Parliamentary Secretary answer my question? In the light of these figures, why was Sunderland taken off the list of areas being aided by the Government?

Mr. Whitelaw

I did by best to answer the hon. Gentleman's question before. It is because of these figures that Sunderland has been restored to the full facilities of a development district.