§ 8. Mr. David Reedasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is satisfied with the rate at which new industry is being attracted to Newton Aycliffe; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Mr. Anthony Grant)Yes, Sir. Employment on the estate has almost doubled during the past 10 years. We are continuing to bring the facilities available at Aycliffe to the notice of firms seeking additional factory space.
§ Mr. ReedIs the hon. Gentleman aware that employment on the estate has been static for almost two years? As the entire social and amenity development of Newton Aycliffe depends on future progress on the industrial estate, will not the hon. Gentleman agree that further stimulus is needed, since Newton Aycliffe is the only Northern Region new town which has not special development area status?
§ Mr. GrantAs to the unemployment, I should point out that the unemployment figures are exactly in line with the Great Britain average. On the question about the new town corporation, I shall be glad to consider, if the hon. Gentleman likes to get in touch with me, any possibilities in this respect.