§ 1. Sir A. Meyerasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the total number of new jobs announced in Flintshire since the grant of intermediate area status to the whole county.
§ The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr. Peter Thomas)I know of about 400 new jobs likely to arise from projects approved in Flintshire since March. In addition 200–300 new jobs are likely to be created at the Hawker Siddeley plant at Broughton.
§ Sir A. MeyerIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that that is a most welcome consequence of the Government's economic policies in general and in particular of the removal of the disabilities from which Flintshire has suffered to date as a result of being excluded from all intermediate assistance until the present Government took office? Will he accept that all this could be undone many times over were the rundown of steel-making at Shotton to proceed in such a way as to put 6,000 men out of work?
§ Mr. ThomasI am fully aware of the importance to the area of the employment opportunities given in the steelworks at Shotton. There have been moderately encouraging moves since Flintshire was made an intermediate area. The number of inquiries has trebled in the six months since then compared with the six months before.
§ Mr. Barry JonesIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware of the special problems of the borough of Flint? How many jobs are there for 596 that borough? Is he aware that the borough is grossly over-dependent on the ageing mills of Courtaulds?
§ Mr. Peter ThomasYes. As the hon. Gentleman knows, I am fully aware that that area depends to a great extent on three major industries, of which Courtaulds is one.