HC Deb 07 August 1972 vol 842 cc1244-5
23. Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give the number of new industrial industries which have been established in the inner London area in the last three years.

Mr. Anthony Grant

I regret that the information in the form requested is not readily available.

Mr. Cox

While I take note of that reply, I am sure that the hon. Gentleman is aware of the deep concern now being expressed throughout London about the continual closure of industries and about the thousands of jobs that we continue to lose. In view of the reply that I was given last week about IDCs, will the hon. Gentleman seek an urgent meeting with the representatives of the 32 London boroughs so that this matter may be discussed with a view to putting forward proposals for the re-establishment of industries in London?

Mr. Grant

I am always willing to consider requests for discussions. However I must point out to the hon. Gentleman that the loss of job opportunities in manufacturing industry in London has been offset by the growth of job opportunities in service industries and in commerce, which is not a state of affairs that the rest of the country enjoys.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Can my hon. Friend say whether he has received representations to the effect that greater London should be converted into a special development area?

Mr. Grant

No, Sir.