HC Deb 26 March 1984 vol 57 c12
12. Mr. Ron Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what are the latest available figures for adult unemployment in Mid-Glamorgan.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

On 9 February 1984 adult unemployment claimants in Mid-Glamorgan totalled 32,444.

Mr. Davies

Does the Secretary of State accept that those figures are truly appalling? Does he recognise that employment opportunities in Mid-Glamorgan on many occasions rest on developments in South Glamorgan? In the light of the recent announcement that Nissan will not be coming to South Wales, does he recognise that the shortfall of £4 million, in South Wales, because of the lack of special development area status, was a major factor in that decision? Does he further accept that the White Paper, which will reduce regional aid in scope and nature in South Wales, will have long-term detrimental effects on inward investment?

Mr. Edwards

I do not agree that that was the major factor which influenced Nissan's decision. There were problems over the South Wales sites. Consultations on the future of regional policy are under way and no decisions have been taken about the extent or scale of aid to South Wales in future.