§ 4. Mr. Gwynfor Evansasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is his assessment of the excess in the number of jobs created in Wales in 1969 over those lost.
§ Mr. George ThomasThe information is not yet available.
§ Mr. EvansIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Government's poor record in this field explains the extent of Welsh migration and unemployment? Is he aware that there were 64,000 fewer jobs in Wales for men in 1969 than in 1964, and that the proportionate amount in Britain would be 1,306,000—a disaster which would result in bringing the Government crashing down?
§ Mr. ThomasThe biggest disaster the hon. Gentleman could have would be if he could not quote figures which were disturbing for Wales. I assure the hon. Gentleman that he must look on the other side of the ledger as well. Industrialists are taking an ever-increasing interest in Wales, and, as the hon. Gentleman knows, are moving in there in considerable numbers. It is little short of staggering that so many new jobs have been created.
§ Mr. AndersonCan my right hon. Friend confirm that the assessment requirement would be much more bleak if the run-down of manpower in the mining industry had not been paralleled by the substantial new development policies pursued by the Government?
§ Mr. ThomasI am obliged to my hon. Friend. It is true that the run-down in the pits, which began long before we took over responsibility, and which would have taken place whoever was in authority, has been the main challenge which has faced me as Secretary of State, my predecessors, and my colleagues, in trying to get additional employment.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattI recognise the difficulties confronting any Government in respect of an area such as South Wales in particular, but can the right hon. Gentleman go further than he did in his answer to the hon. Member for Carmar- 6 then (Mr. Gwynfor Evans) and say whether these figures are being looked for, and when they will be available?
§ Mr. ThomasThe figures will be available within a few months.