HC Deb 13 May 1970 vol 801 cc1241-2
49. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of concern for employment prospects in Midlothian as a consequence of the contraction of coal-mining and paper making; and what steps he will take to provide more job opportunities.

Dr. Dickson Mabon

Along with my right hon. Friends the Minister of Technology and the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity my right hon. Friend keeps in close touch with employment problems in Midlothian. The Government will continue to encourage new industrial growth and expansion in the area.

Mr. Eadie

Whilst I thank my hon. Friend for his answer, is he aware that there is great anxiety in my constituency about the continued contraction of the older, dying industries, particularly those that provide male employment? Will he give an undertaking that a meeting could be held between representatives of the Ministry of Technology and Midlothian County Council to try to resolve the problem, which is perturbing us?

Dr. Mabon

I share my hon. Friend's concern. I met the Greater Livingston Group, which comprises West Lothian County Council, Midlothian County Council and the Livingston New Town Development Corporation on 24th April, when we discussed the Greater Livingston Plan. We also discussed the question of industrial promotion and the need for more industry for Midlothian. I am certain that out of that meeting will come initiatives which should help us to improve the situation in the county of Midlothian.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

Has the Minister given any consideration to what would be the future of the coalmining industry in Midlothian and elsewhere in Scotland in the event of Britain's joining the Common Market?

Dr. Mabon

I would not be bold enough to try to answer that question without notice.

Mr. Willis

What steps have been taken to promote the growth of industrial development to the south-east of Edinburgh, which is in Midlothian, as was proposed in the development plan in 1965?

Dr. Mabon

If my right hon. Friend, who has a great deal of knowledge about the matter, looks again at the Greater Livingston Plan, coupled with the recent study of the area carried out by HeriotWatt University, and consults Midlothian County Council about the recent meeting I have mentioned, which was held in the county council buildings, he will see that we are pursuing this very matter.