HC Deb 13 December 1962 vol 669 c576
Q5. Mr. Fernyhough

asked the Prime Minister, in view of the increase now taking place in unemployment in Jarrow and in the north-east region, what special steps he will take to deal with the problem.

The Prime Minister

The North-East should benefit substantially from the expansionary measures that have already been taken, including the field of public expenditure.

Mr. Fernyhough

Does not the Prime Minister recognise that the steps which have been taken are totally inadequate, that some of these steps have already been in operation for two years, and that the problem gets worse rather than better? Does he not recall the speech which he made at Halifax on 31st March, 1958, when he said that if the economic situation gat worse, the Government had plans ready on the shelves to put into operation? When are the plans going to be put into operation to find for the growing number of unemployed the jobs which they require?

The Prime Minister

A great deal has been done both in general and in the particular sphere, and mare is being done.