HC Deb 14 October 1946 vol 427 cc131-2W
121. Mr. G. Thomas

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many new factories are in process of construction in South Wales and how many have fifty or more building craftsmen engaged on the work.

Sir S. Cripps

On 4th October, 78 factories and extensions were in varying stages of construction in the South Wales Development Area. At that date there were more than 50 building workers engaged on 16 of these; but only four factories had more than 50 skilled building craftsmen at work on them.

130. Mr. Willis

asked the President of the Board of Trade the details of new factories and extensions that have been approved in Scotland since 14th May; and the number of workers for which these will find employment.

Sir S. Cripps

Forty-nine new factories and 41 extensions were approved in Scotland in the period from 14th May to 30th September, 1946; it is estimated that about 15,750 persons will be employed in these new factories and extensions when they are built and in full production. A further 97 factories to be built in advance of demands from specific tenants were approved in this period and Should eventually provide employment for about 20,000 persons. As the list of such factories is long, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, send him a copy.

Mr. D. J. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent the acquisition of sites for factory projects in South Wales is being held up through difficulties in coming to terms with the owners of the land; and what steps he is taking to expedite matters in this connection.

Sir S. Cripps

In one case the Board of Trade have failed to reach agreement with the owners of land required in South Wales for factory projects, and I am now proceeding to exercise the powers conferred upon the Board of Trade by Section 2(2) of the Acquisition of Land (Authorisation Procedure) Act, 1946. There are about six other cases in which negotiations for sites are protracted mainly on account of technical problems concerning the best use of the land, but every effort is being made to bring the cases to conclusion.