§ Mr. J. Taylorasked the President of the Board of Trade if he has noted that unemployment in the county of West Lothian had risen to seven per cent. at mid-January, 1958; and if he will include the county among the places which are to receive special attention under the provision of the Distribution of Industry (Industrial Finance) Act, 1958.
§ Sir D. EcclesUnemployment in West Lothian at mid-January, 1959, was 5.3 per cent., excluding those temporarily stopped. But over the last twelve months the rate was 3.5 per cent. This is below the level which would qualify the area for inclusion on the list of places eligible for financial assistance under the Act. I shall, however, watch the position closely.