§ 36. Dr. Broughtonasked the President of the Board of Trade what proposals he has for making Batley and Morley a development district under the Local Employment Act.
§ Mr. D. PriceNone, Sir. Unemployment in these two areas is below the national average.
§ Dr. BroughtonIs it not the case that the President of the Board of Trade is measuring the problems of industry with the yardstick of unemployment figures only? Is the hon. Member aware that Batley in particular is becoming more and more a place for bed and breakfast for workers who have to travel some distance to places of employment? Does not he realise that new industries are required to revitalise the area?
§ Mr. PriceMy right hon. Friend recognises that many areas have their own problems and their own desires, but the fact is that the Local Employment Act puts the responsibility on him to consider high and persistent unemployment. That is clearly the priority. My right hon. Friend is of the opinion that at present Batley and Morley does not qualify under the heading of high and persistent unemployment.