HC Deb 09 November 1967 vol 753 c1240
30. Mr. George Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs whether the special measures of assistance to colliery districts by encouraging industrial development will now apply to Thorne, where the local colliery has been closed for several years causing unemployment and hardship in that area.

Mr. Alan Williams

My right hon. Friend is still consulting with regional economic planning councils about the areas to be covered by the Government's new measures.

Mr. Jeger

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that this is a matter of extreme urgency, since in this area unemployment is about 9 per cent. and prospective employers are being actively discouraged from settling in the district?

Mr. Williams

We are aware of this and hope to be able to make a statement fairly soon.