§ 32. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of the complexities mentioned in his letter dated early in 1962 to the hon. and learned Member for Aberdeen, North, relating to the provision of a pontoon dock for Aberdeen, he will now make a statement indicating when the construction of the pontoon dock will commence and how long it will take to complete.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Gilmour Leburn)I understand that the Aberdeen Harbour Board still has the matter under consideration.
§ Mr. Hector HughesDoes the hon. Gentleman realise that this matter has been under consideration far too long? There has been undue delay. Prompt attention to it would go far to solve the unemployment problem in the northeast of Scotland, not only for those who plan the docks, but for those who do the actual work. It would enable 78 Aberdeen shipbuilding firms to undertake the building of larger ships which are the fashion of today. Will he see that the matter is expedited?
§ Mr. LeburnI think the hon. and learned Member understands that this is a matter for the Aberdeen Harbour Board. It is considering it. I understand it is also taking into account the question of building a slipway rather than a pontoon dock.