§ 5. Mr. Duffyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many new jobs were provided in Northern Ireland last year; and what proportion were created west of the Bann.
§ Mr. ChannonDuring 1971 agreements were negotiated by the Ministry of Commerce for the creation of a further 7,200 jobs in Government-assisted manufacturing projects. Of these jobs 35 per cent, were in projects west of the Bann.
§ Mr. DuffyIs the hon. Gentleman aware that that information confirms, all too sadly, the imbalance of job opportunities existing on either side of the Bann between Belfast and the Derry hinterland? This has constituted in the past a major source of discontent on the part of the minority. If the hon. Gentleman is to 682 provide a more balanced distribution of jobs in future, he will have to pursue vigorous and dramatic policies of redress.
§ Mr. ChannonMy right hon. Friend is determined to do all in his power to help the employment situation in all parts of Northern Ireland. I am not sure that the figures quoted by the hon. Gentleman bear out his thesis. Thirty-five per cent, of jobs were in areas west of the Bann and that area represents only 27 per cent, of the population of Northern Ireland.
§ Rev. Ian PaisleyHow many jobs have been lost west of the Bann as a result of terrorist activity? Does not the hon. Gentleman feel that the continuation of this terrorist activity is jeopardising the economy of Northern Ireland and the provision of many more jobs that could be available for the people of all sections of the community?
§ Mr. ChannonThe hon. Gentleman is right. If terrorist activity goes on, the future and economic prospects of the whole Province and of all sections of the population will be in grave danger.