HC Deb 18 December 1962 vol 669 cc1056-7
3. Mr. Grey

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what contracts his Department has placed with North-East firms during 1961 and 1962 up to the latest available date.

Mr. Rippon

During the period 1st January, 1961, to 30th November, 1962, my Ministry has ordered works contracts valued at £1,008,200 to be carried out in the North-East. In addition, it has placed contracts for stores items valued at £483,737 with firms in development districts in the North-East.

Mr. Grey

Is the Minister aware that the orders which have been placed in the North-East have been far from adequate? Is he aware that the more orders his Department and any other Department place in the North-East, the better will be the opportunities for employment in those industries? Will he take note of the fact that we want more orders from his Department and other Departments?

Mr. Rippon

I take note of what the hon. Member said. There is another Question on the Order Paper about future work.