§ 26 and 27. Mr. Boydenasked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development (1) in view of the recent evidence submitted to him regarding the increasing difficulties of the urban district council of Shildon in attracting industry to the area as a result of their omission from the growth zone, if he will now include Shildon in that zone;
(2) if, following the evidence presented to him by the Bishop Auckland Urban District Council and his visit to the town, he will now include Bishop Auckland in the north-east growth zone.
§ Mr. HeathI have considered the evidence carefully but I am satisfied that, 1326 for reasons which I have already explained to the councils concerned, it would not be right to alter the boundaries of the growth zone.
§ Mr. BoydenWill the right hon. Gentleman give one good economic or industrial reason why these two towns should be excluded from the growth zone? How does he justify the many square miles of virgin countryside south of Bishop Auckland and Shildon which are included in the area of growth? Does he really expect anything to grow there other than grass and corn?
§ Mr. HeathI do not think I am giving away any secrets. It is known that the hon. Member was present at the discussions I had with these councils, when I had an opportunity of explaining the reasons. He therefore has heard more than one good reason why we are adhering to the boundaries.
§ Mr. BoydenOn a point of order. Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.