HC Deb 08 February 1971 vol 811 cc12-3
19. Mr. Boyden

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many new jobs are expected to arise from the industrial development certificates issued during the three months ending 31st January, 1971 in the employment exchange areas of Bishop Auckland, Shildon and Barnard Castle.

Sir J. Eden

During the period 1st November, 1970 to 31st January, 1971, one industrial development certificate was issued in the Bishop Auckland Employment Exchange Area and none in Shildon and Barnard Castle Employment Exchange Areas. It would not be right for me to give the estimated additional employment for an individual project.

Mr. Boyden

Would the hon. Gentleman agree that the flow of industrial development certificates in 1969 and early 1970 was reasonably satisfactory, and does he blame the Labour Government for the sudden cessation of certificates? surely the blame clearly lies on the present Government.

Sir J. Eden

In the comparable period 1st November, 1969 to 31st January, 1970, one i.d.c. was issued in Bishop Auckland and none in Shildon and Barnard Castle—exactly the same number.