§ 22. Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many new jobs and renewed use of empty factories his Department expects in the London borough of Brent in motor engineering.
§ Mr. ChatawayI am afraid that I cannot forecast what firms may eventually occupy empty factories in the London borough of Brent.
§ Mr. PavittWill the right hon. Gentleman's Department examine in depth the consequences of British Leyland's massive development programme, which was announced recently, particularly in relation to the Park Royal Industrial Estate, which up to 10 years ago was more or less one of the centres of engineering for the motor industry? Although we still have Park Royal Vehicles making London buses, many skilled motor engineers are now working as window cleaners, and in jobs of that sort. In this development programme there is, therefore, a great need for this section of London not to be forgotten.
§ Mr. ChatawayIn so far as this is a matter for me, I shall certainly take into account what the hon. Gentleman has said, but he will be glad to know that since the beginning of last year the IDCs which have been granted for all projects in Brent—it is estimated—should provide over 500 new jobs. There is a very low level of unemployment in the borough at present.