HC Deb 20 June 1939 vol 348 cc2049-50W
Mr. Trevor Cox

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will consider the setting up of an inquiry to consider the question of accelerating the process of establishing new and lighter industries in North-east Cheshire, to re-absorb into industry former cotton operatives and other workers now without work?

Mr. E. Brown

After careful inquiry by the advisory committee appointed under Section 5 (2) of the Special Areas (Amendment) Act, 1937, I directed that Section 5 of the Act should apply to areas of which the following form part:

  • The Borough of Dukinfield
  • The Borough of Stalybridge
  • The Urban District of Longdendale.
  • The Rural District of Tintwistle.

The Lancashire Industrial Sites Company, Limited, is ready to provide factories for new industrial undertakings to be established in these areas and the persons carrying on such undertakings which occupy factories provided are eligible for consideration for financial assistance by way of loan from the Treasury.

In view of the action already taken I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by a further inquiry such as is suggested by my hon. Friend.