HC Deb 06 June 1961 vol 641 cc77-8W
64. Mr. W. Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that between 1954 and 1959 industrial production in Scotland rose by only 2 per cent. as compared with a 12 per cent. increase in England and Wales; and, in view of the continuing disparity in production rates, whether he will engage in urgent consultations with both sides of industry with a view to solving this problem.

Mr. Maclay

Yes, but it is encouraging that between 1959 and 1960 production rose in Scotland by 6 per cent., the same increase as in the United Kingdom as a whole. Scotland's slower rate of growth is mainly due to the comparatively greater share of output attributable to the traditional heavier types of industry where there has been less room for expansion. But the Government's policy of encouraging new firms and products is helping to redress the balance.