§ 45. Mr. James Johnsonasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the continuing unemployment in Hull, particularly for women; and whether he will seek power to pay a differential rate of investment allowance as recommended by the Yorkshire and Humberside Economic Planning Council.
§ Mr. JayRecent figures of unemployment do not bear out my hon. Friend's contention that there is continuing unemployment in Hull, particularly for women. I am aware of the recommendation of the Yorkshire and Humberside Economic Planning Council, but I have no present intention of introducing any further regional differentiation into the investment grants system.
§ Mr. JohnsonIs my right hon. Friend aware that a level over 2 per cent. unem- 610 Polyment has been a permanent feature for a long time on Humberside? Since he made such an encouraging speech when winding up the debate last night, will he not think again about this?
§ Mr. JayI am glad to say that, according to my figures, my hon. Friend is rather exaggerating the level of unemployment on Humberside. Nevertheless, we shall watch it. It is possible to meet any problem by the use of industrial development certificates, quite apart from the grants.
§ Mr. Kevin McNamaraIs my right hon. Friend aware that even when Hull Corporation has been prepared to make loans to industries in the area, the Public Works Loan Board has recommended that it should charge ¾ per cent. above that recommended as the legal rate? This will not encourage industry in the area but is more likely to encourage unemployment.
§ Mr. JayThat question should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government.