HC Deb 21 July 1970 vol 804 c219
8. Mr. Bob Brown

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what proposals he has to increase the employment opportunity in civil engineering in the North-East.

Mr. Amery

The prospects of an improvement in employment in civil engineering in the North-East will depend on the general progress of the economy as a whole. The Government will be paying particular attention to the circumstances of the less prosperous regions in developing their regional policies.

Mr. Brown

Does the Minister consider that he would be doing a service to the development areas if, in consultation with his right hon. Friend, Tory-controlled local authorities were encouraged to get down to more building in these areas?

Mr. Amery

I will certainly discuss the hon. Gentleman's point with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government. Indeed, we are already in correspondence.