HC Deb 11 March 1965 vol 708 c148W
Mr. Armstrong

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent he is prepared to modify the growth zone policy pursued in the past in West Durham; and what financial assistance he proposes to give to the area.

Mr. Darling

The whole of West Durham, excepting Barnard Castle Urban District and parts of Barnard Castle Rural District, is a development district where the full benefits of the Local Employment Acts and Finance Act 1963 are available, as they are in the growth zone, to new and expanding industry.

Mr. Armstrong

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many applications for industrial development in the West Durham area have been received by his Department during the past 12 months; and what assistance has been given.

Mr. Darling

Twenty-one applications for i.d.c.s were received in the West Durham area during the 12 months ended 28th February, 1965. During the same period just over£237,000 of financial assistance was offered for 25 projects.

Mr. Armstrong

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many new jobs are in prospect in West Durham; and what is his estimate of the future level of employment in that area.

Mr. Darling

There are estimated to be 7,000 jobs in prospect from new industrial developments planned for West Durham. The future level of employment depends on many factors; in particular, on the extent to which new industry is attracted to the area.