§ 15. Mr. Doigasked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development how many new jobs have been provided in Dundee since 1951, excluding additions to firms already in Dundee in 1951.
§ Mr. du CannFirms new to Dundee since 1951 are now employing about 1,200 persons.
§ Mr. DoigDoes not the right hon. Gentleman consider that that is a deplorable figure for such a long period in respect of an officially designated development area? Is the Minister aware that more jobs have been lost through the closure of foundries and the contraction of the shipyards than have been brought there? Would he agree that were it not for the new industries brought to the area by the last Labour Government, Dundee would be in a very sad state today?
§ Mr. du CannThe hon. Gentleman's Question relates to new industries coming to Dundee. This matter ought to be considered in the context of the large expansions of existing firms and of further plans for the future, of which 1465 he is aware. That gives a balanced picture. To take one factor on its own is not representative.
Mr. GilmourCan my right hon. Friend say what the rate of unemployment is in Dundee, as compared with the rest of Scotland, as a result of the new jobs offered?
§ Mr. du CannThe figure of unemployment in Dundee in May, 1964, was 2.8 per cent., and there is no doubt that it has been reduced partly as a result of Her Majesty's Government's efforts.