§ 15 and 16. Mr. Peter Millsasked the Minister of Labour (1) what steps he is taking to overcome the high and increasing level of unemployment in the Bideford area;
(2) what action he is taking to remedy the serious effects on unemployment caused by the breakdown in communications at Bideford.
§ Mr. FernyhoughBetween 8th January and 11th March, 1968, the number of people registered as unemployed at Bideford employment exchange increased from 436 to 485. I am not aware that any part of this increase was due to difficulties with road communications in Bideford. My local officers are doing all they can to help those who become unemployed to find suitable work and offer opportunities for training in suitable cases.
§ Mr. MillsIs not this an appalling reflection on Socialist policies in this area? Will the hon. Gentleman do everything in his power to see that further industry is brought to the area and that the factory which M.P.J. recently vacated is soon filled?
§ Mr. FernyhoughThe hon. Gentleman will note that, as Bideford is in a development area, the present Government are doing more to attract industry to it and are offering better financial inducements than any previous Administration. I hope that, given time, he will find that this policy works to his entire satisfaction.