HC Deb 28 April 1980 vol 983 c965
27. Mr. Coleman

asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether, in view of the continuing rise in unemployment in the Neath-Resolven travel-to-work area, as shown in the April figures, he will now announce his reversal of his decision to take the areas special development status away.

Mr. David Mitchell

The assisted area gradings of all those areas affected by the British Steel Corporation's proposals are being reviewed. A decision will be taken as quickly as possible after BSC has given a final decision on the future of its steel making plants, following its consultation with the unions.

Mr. Coleman

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the unemployment rate in that travel-to-work area is now 9.3 per cent? Is he further aware that when the area had the status conferred upon it in 1968 the level of unemployment was 5 per cent? It is only since the announcement of his right hon. Friend that the area was to be downgraded that the unemployment rate has crept up. What will he do about it?

Mr. Mitchell

As soon as the result of BSC's consultations with the unions is made known, we shall review the matter. If that should not result in a steel closure, or if some other change of policy should follow from it, I assure the hon. Gentleman that the relative change in the area of Neath compared with other parts of the country will itself be perfectly good evidence for us to consider a review.