§ Sir J. Edenasked the President of the Board of Trade, whether he is aware that the skilled engineers at the West Howe factory, at present managed by Vickers Limited on behalf of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, are being dispersed; and what steps he is taking to ensure the preservation of opportunities for highly skilled engineering employment in the Bournemouth area.
§ Mr. DarlingI am aware of these developments at West Howe. I understand that employment opportunities for skilled engineers in the Bournemouth area are good.
§ Sir J. Edenasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that at least one company is anxious to expand by acquiring the West Howe factory at present run by Vickers Limited on behalf of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, and that the company concerned wishes to take on the unit of skilled engineers; and whether he will make a statement about his general policy towards companies manufacturing a product with a strong export potential who wish to expand in areas other than development areas,
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§ Mr. George DarlingIndustrial projects outside the development districts are examined on their merits, including their export potential and labour requirements, bearing in mind the overriding need to create more employment in the development districts.