§ Mr. Pentlandasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the high rate of unemployment existing in the County of Durham and to the fact that a number of coal mines have been scheduled for closure by the National Coal Board over the next few years; and what proposals he has in mind for bringing new industries into the county.
§ Mr. MaudlingI am aware of the high rate of unemployment which exists in parts of the County of Durham and that some of the coal mines to be closed over the next few years under the National Coal Board's plans are in the county. The Board will continue in its efforts to attract new industry to the county and, under the proposals in the Local Employment Bill, will be able to take into consideration any imminent threat of high and persistent unemployment brought about by pit closures