HC Deb 17 February 1953 vol 511 cc100-1W
64. Miss Herbison

asked the President of the Board of Trade what plans he has for new industry for Shotts and district in view of the National Coal Board's report that all but one of the pits in that area will be closed within the next 10 years.

Mr. H. Strauss

I understand that several pits in the Shotts area are expected to cease production within the next 10 years, but the National Coal Board are developing extensive deposits elsewhere in Scotland, where miners will be wanted. My right hon. Friend will carefully watch these developments and continue to encourage industrial expansion to provide sufficient employment in Shotts and areas nearby for those for whom suitable opportunities cannot be found elsewhere.