§ Mr. Loydenasked the Secretary of State for Industry what steps he is considering to deal with the high unemployment on Merseyside which has been increased by recent factory closures and lay-offs.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieIn addition to the full range of financial incentives available under the Industry Act 1972, we expect that Merseyside, like other assisted areas, will benefit substantially from the setting up of the National Enterprise Board and the planning agreements system. The Government are also taking 27W powers under the Employment Protection Bill to mitigate the effect of future redundancies.
§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for Industry what is the total amount of land purchased by his Department for future development on Merseyside; where it is situated; what is to be developed there; and how many jobs it is expected to provide.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieMy Department has acquired a 21-acre site at Gill-moss which will be available both for advance factories and for factories built to industrialists' specific requirements. I cannot yet say how many jobs can be expected to be provided. It is hoped to acquire a site at Speke this year, and further land will be bought as funds permit.