§ 25. Mr. Robert Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations has he received from the North-East of Scotland Development Authority on current levels of unemployment for the area; and what replies he has given.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellNone.
§ Mr. Oswaldasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many letters he has received since July, 1970, drawing his attention to the continuing rise in the level of unemployment in Scotland; and what replies he has sent.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellSince July, 1970, I have received correspondence on a number of matters of national and local interest which has included references to the continuing rise in the level of unemployment in Scotland.
In replying I have expressed my concern about the very high unemployment figures last summer in Scotland which have grown larger during the winter and which arise from the stagnant economic situation which we inherited, together with inflation. I have referred also to the steps taken by the Government to remedy this situation and to produce an economic climate which will encourage industrial growth in Scotland and the United Kingdom as a whole.
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§ Mr. Eadieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will convene a national conference in Scotland to discuss unemployment.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellNo. The existing forums for discussion are more than adequate, including the Scottish Economic Council and my regular contacts and meetings with representatives of industry and trade unions.