HC Deb 02 December 1965 vol 721 cc1616-7
20. Mr. Tinn

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will instruct his Advisory Committees to be less cautious in considering applications from smaller firms in areas where they are badly needed, such as East Cleveland.

Mr. Jay

No, Sir. I am satisfied that the Advisory Committee's advice and recommendations are fair and reasonable, and in accordance with the objectives of the Local Employment Acts.

Mr. Tinn

Does my right hon. Friend recall that a recent application by a firm which has developed an ironstone mine site at North Skelton was turned down and that the urgency of this matter in my constituency has been increased by the announcement of delay to the projected I.C.I. fibres factory at North Skelton? Will he see what he can do to encourage to a greater extent the introduction of new industry in East Cleveland?

Mr. Jay

We shall do all we can to encourage the introduction of industry into these areas, but the function of B.O.T.A.C. is to give views not on the distribution of industry policy generally, but on the suitability and viability of particular firms.