HC Deb 02 August 1961 vol 645 cc192-3W
92. Mr. Pentland

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that new jobs being provided in the North-East of England are still insufficient to keep up with the demand; and, in view of this, what further measures he proposes to introduce in order to improve employment prospects in this part of the country.

Mr. N. Macpherson

My right hon. Friend is well aware of the need for further industrial development in the North-East. The Government, are through their distribution of industry policy, encouraging such development and considerable progress has already been made. The rate of unemployment for the Northern Region in July this year was 1.9 per cent., the lowest since December, 1957. My right hon. Friend does not consider that any additional measures are required.