§ 15. Sir H. Oakshottasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will now announce his decision regarding the application of the Local Employment Act to Merseyside.
§ Mr. ErrollThe matter is still under consideration. I can add nothing to the reply that my hon. Friend gave on 20th November to my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Kirkdale (Mr. N. Pannell.)
§ Sir H. OakshottWill my right hon. Friend recognise that, in its efforts to attract industry, what Merseyside wants is the removal of a handicap under which it labours vis-à-vis other areas which are already scheduled? It wants a fair chance. The application of the Act would be an excellent way to enable Merseyside to help itself. Will my right hon. Friend announce his decision as quickly as he can?
§ Mr. ErrollI will certainly announce my decision as quickly as possible. I want to ensure that all areas suffering from severe unemployment have a fair chance.