HC Deb 15 February 1966 vol 724 c1098
22. Mr. Buchan

asked the Minister of Technology what consideration has been given to establishing science-based industry in the Linwood area of Renfrew shire which could take advantage of the potentialities of the existing industrial complex there.

Mr. Marsh

The proper distribution of industry is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.

Mr. Buchan

Is my hon. Friend not not aware that at the Board of Trade there is a pretty large file on this in my name? Will he keep in mind that this industrial complex is unique in Scotland in that it can serve a large variety of industry, but it lacks a science-based industry? Since private industry has failed to establish this, is it not time that we asked the public sector to do it under his Department?

Mr. Marsh

I do not think there is any question about the Government being fully alive to the need to have a completely balanced industrial base in the area which my hon. Friend represents, but this particular question of distribution of industry is the responsibility of another Ministry.