§ 30. Mr. Eadieasked the President of the Board of Trade what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Scotland relative to the Newbattle Industrial Estate, Midlothian.
§ Mr. DarlingWe have been fully informed by my noble friend the Under-Secretary of State for Scotland of his discussions with Midlothian County Council. I welcome suitable developments on the Newbattle Estate.
§ Mr. EadieWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for that very satisfactory Answer, may I ask whether he is aware that there is some disquiet in this area about the future contraction of the mining industry? Will he agree that the labour force in this area has earned itself the reputation of being among the finest in the country?
§ Mr. DarlingYes, Sir. We are well aware of the attractive circumstances of the Newbattle Estate, and will do all that we possibly can to get additional factories there.
§ Mr. StodartCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the attractiveness of the Newbattle Estate is drawing people out of the districts of Edinburgh, Leith and Portobello, where there is no investment grant available, and thereby causing double handling to get to the Port of Leith?
§ Mr. DarlingThat is another Question. I would have thought that the unemployment circumstances in that part of Scotland would have had the sympathy of the hon. Gentleman.