§ 8. Mr. Dobsonasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what steps are being taken to alleviate unemployment in the South-Western Region this winter.
Mr. Alan WilliamsThe South West Region as a whole will benefit from the moderate measures of reflation which the Government have already taken. The programme of minor public works authorised for the development areas, will help to alleviate unemployment in the South-Western Development Area. The work which can be carried out there this winter should amount to £1.9 million.
§ Mr. DobsonI thank my hon. Friend for that very welcome news, but will he still keep in mind the need to bolster even that programme a little more this winter, dealing more with communications and social works of various kinds, particularly building, which will be very valuable to stop unemployment, which will be above average?
Mr. WilliamsIn addition to these measures, there will be the initial effect of the regional employment premium, and 615 the underlying trend, seasonally adjusted, for unemployment is showing an improvement in that region. The figures of I.D.C.s approved so far this year show that in the first three quarters approvals totalled more than in the full 12 months of last year.
§ Mr. EmeryWould the hon. Gentleman realise that not only is there concern about unemployment but that all aspects concerned with the South-West are creating so much concern among South-West Members that it would be worth while to have a debate on the whole subject? Unless he does not want the views of hon. Members, would he appeal to the Leader of the House for such a debate?
Mr. WilliamsThe hon. Member must be aware that we have held meetings with Members for the areas concerned. We have one such meeting today in respect of another region. The business of the House is not under my control. There have been debates on this in the past.