§ 46. Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received from organisations to reduce total Government assistance to industry in Scotland; and what replies he has given.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonNone, Sir.
§ Mr. SillarsIs my hon. Friend aware that both he and the hon. Member for North Angus and Mearns (Mr. Buchanan-Smith), on Question No. 45, mixed up Mr. James Jack, the General Secretary of the Scottish T.U.C., and Mr. Victor Feather, General Secretary of the T.U.C.? Is he also aware that I have read Mr. Feather's speech in Scotland last week and that it did not coincide with Tory Party policy in any way whatsoever?
§ Mr. MacArthurWill the Minister agree that what matters in the end is the success of the policy? Will he not agree that under the regional policies operated by the Conservative Party employment in Scotland increased by 30,000 jobs over our last four years and that under the regional policies of the Labour Government there has been a loss of 41,000 jobs?
§ Dr. MabonUnder the present Government the rate of supplying new jobs to Scotland has doubled, is on target, and is well over 120,000. Under this Government the slimming-down of the older industries has gone faster than expected by anyone, including right hon. Gentlemen opposite.
§ Mr. MaudlingThe hon. Gentleman was asked a simple question. Why does he not answer it?