HC Deb 12 November 1969 vol 791 cc382-3
4. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what will be the cost of the new crown building in Bishop Auckland; and what stage has been reached in its development.

Mr. Loughlin

The cost will be £391,000. Work on site started on the 5th August.

Mr. Boyden

May I ask whether the contract has gone to a north-east company? Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the concern which exists in the northeast about the loss of north-east jobs to other builders? Will he ask his Department to look particularly into the claims of this regional development area, and if he finds that north-east builders need particular advice from his Department, will he see that they get it?

Mr. Loughlin

We arc always willing to give assistance to builders and contractors in areas with a high degree of unemployment. I am sorry that I have not the information in relation to whether the contract has been let to a north-east builder, but would draw attention to the fact that, whoever gets the contract, a great deal of local labour will inevitably be employed in carrying it out.