HC Deb 08 May 1972 vol 836 cc901-2
26. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many industrial development certificates were issued to industrialists in the Livingston new town area since it was granted special development area status.

Mr. Anthony Grant

None, but 1,800 jobs in manufacturing industry are expected to arise in the Livingston employment exchange area over the next four years from known industrial projects. Total unemployed is at present 570.

Mr. Eadie

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that the incoming population in the new town is not increasing more than job provision? Can he say what sort of co-ordinating function his Department has in this matter?

Mr. Grant

I understand the hon. Gentleman's anxiety, but I think that it is ill-founded. We work in close conjunction with the Department of the Environment in this respect and it is far too early to suggest that more people will come in than can be catered for by Livingston. I am pleased to say that Livingston has succeeded in attracting a variety of manufacturing firms, many of them new to Scotland, and that it is the focal point of an extensive surrounding area.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Is there any evidence that any of the special development areas created last year have benefited disproportionately, as compared with other parts of development areas, from this status? If there is, will my lion. Friend publish it?

Mr. Grant

I have no such evidence.