HC Deb 18 November 1965 vol 720 cc1312-3
15. Mrs. Shirley Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will now accept proposals for industrial development in Royston, in view of the proposed expansion of the town.

The Minister of State, Board of Trade (Mr. George Darling)

I think that we should wait until decisions are taken about expansion in Royston before considering how much industrial development may be needed.

Mrs. Williams

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that a decision in principle has been made in favour of expansion between the county council and the local council, and unless there is industrial development fairly shortly Royston could develop into a commuter town, which would be very undesirable?

Mr. Darling

Yes, but, as I think my hon. Friend knows, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government is considering this proposal in the review of the South-East Study. The industrial developments, if any are required, will come along after that study is finished.