HC Deb 13 December 1971 vol 828 cc38-40
63. Mr. Edwin Wainwright

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many industrial development certificates have been granted in the South Yorkshire coal mining intermediate area since June, 1970; and how many jobs for men and women will be provided thereby.

Mr. Grant

There were 117, estimated to provide 3,000 jobs for men and 1,600 jobs for women.

Mr. Wainwright

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that in spite of his right hon. Friend's fourth attempt to create jobs in South Yorkshire, none has been forthcoming? Will he also take into the account the tact that many people in the Dearne Valley district have to travel many miles to obtain work? When will the Government do something to make certain that South Yorkshire will become a more viable community than it is at present?

Mr. Grant

I appreciate what the hon. Gentleman says, but measures already taken to put the economy on a sound basis should lead to the revival of investment in industry in the Dearne Valley.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Does my hon. Friend realise when considering the question of I.D.C.s in South Yorkshire that he should appreciate that next door in Derbyshire we, too, are in need of new and alternative forms of employment? Will the Government see that in pursuing their I.D.C policy more jobs will be provided in the longer term, not only in Yorkshire, but in the intermediate areas and indeed more widely?

Mr. Grant

My hon. Friend will realise that I.D.C.s are freely available in South Yorkshire in the intermediate area; and as for the availability of I.D.C.s in other parts of the country, the position was set out by the Department of Trade and Industry on 5th July.

Mr. Wainwright

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.