HC Deb 23 April 1964 vol 693 cc1485-6
6. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Minister of Power if he will take steps, similar to those he has taken in north-east England, to ensure that main contractors for coal-gas plant in Scotland subcontract only to Scottish firms, in view of the unemployment situation; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peyton

The Government's aim of supporting employment in the development areas is well known to the Boards, but my right hon. Friend does not intervene in the placing of particular contracts. The Scottish Gas Board does give preference to local firms, and asks its main contractors to do the same for sub-contracts.

Mr. Dempsey

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that recently a very reputable firm in Coatbridge was refused the right to tender for manufacturer's supplies for a public contract in the north-east of England on the ground that the Minister had issued a direction that employment had to be confined to that area? I am not quarrelling with that decision, but cannot Scottish firms be given exactly the same treatment? When they can undertake work in Scotland should not these contracts be given to Scottish firms?

Mr. Peyton

The manufacture of the light distillate reforming plant now being installed does not take place in Scotland but nevertheless it is a fact that nearly half of the value of the Board's major contracts is placed in Scotland and much of the remainder goes to other development areas.

Mr. Dempsey

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that I have a letter in my possession in which the Minister outlines his policy in this respect? Does he not think that if Scotland can supply 100 per cent. of the requirements, Scottish firms should have the opportunity of doing so just as firms in the north-east of England have at present?

Mr. Peyton

My right hon. Friend has no responsibility for the South of Scotland Electricity Board, but the Scottish Gas Board, for which he can answer, is very anxious to place as much work as possible in Scotland.

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