§ 17. Mr. David Stoddartasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will now declare Swindon an intermediate area in the light of the recent announcement by British Rail that 1,300 men are to be declared redundant during 1972 and 1973.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Mr. Anthony Grant)We are keeping a careful watch on the situation. But unemployment is appreciably below the national average and the outlook is more favourable than in many other unassisted areas elsewhere.
§ Mr. StoddartIs the Under-Secretary aware that his reply will cause acute disappointment in my constituency and that, if British Railways continues with its policy, the unemployment rate in Swindon will rise to 7 per cent.? Would it not be better for the Department to consider the position now in advance, rather than to impose upon Swindon heavy unemployment, which is endemic in Britain at present?
§ Mr. GrantI understand the situation, because I have had the advantage of a discussion with the hon. Gentleman and I am prepared to see his constituents about this question. It would be a mistake at this stage to start changing the areas in anticipation of what might happen in the future.