HC Deb 13 November 1972 vol 846 cc18-9W
Dr. John A. Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many new inquiries he has received about advance factories in West Cumberland since the introduction of the Industry Act.

Mr. Anthony Grant

Eight. Of these, three inquirers have paid visits and three expressed serious interest.

Dr. John A. Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many advance factories are currently vacant in West Cumberland, and how many are under construction; and how many inquiries he has received since June 1970 from possible tenants.

Mr. Anthony Grant

There are two vacant factories and one under construction. Since June, 1970, there have been 93 inquiries about advance factories in West Cumberland.

Dr. John A. Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many suitable applicants are currently being considered by the Department for the vacant advance factory at Cleator Moor.

Mr. Anthony Grant

None, but every opportunity is taken to suggest the factory to suitable enquirers.

Dr. John A. Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects the advance factory currently under construction in Millom to be completed; and how many inquiries he has received from prospective tenants.

Mr. Anthony Grant

The factory is expected to be completed by the end of February, 1973. There have been two inquiries about it.

Dr. John A. Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proposals he has for the further construction of advance factories in West Cumberland.

Mr. Anthony Grant

In addition to one under construction, two advance factories were authorised this summer but construction has not yet started. The need for further factories will, of course, be borne in mind in any new programme.