HC Deb 26 October 1977 vol 936 cc855-6W
Mr. Molloy

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if, in view of the unemployment figures released on 26th July, he will change his policies which prevent the creation of openings for skilled labour in the London borough of Ealing by means of the creation of intensive industrial uses for such industrial sites rather than moribund sites being used for warehouse projects which employ few people;

(2) in order to assist job creation in the London borough of Ealing, if he will see representatives of Ealing and the hon. Member for Ealing, North regarding his recent planning decision reversing Ealing Council's endeavours to combat unemployment.

Mr. Guy Barnett:

My right hon. Friend wrote to my hon. Friend on these matters on 31st August. In the letter he explained that individual cases must be decided on their merits both in the light of relevant policies and the recommendations of an inspector when an inquiry has been held. Once he has given a decision, he has no further jurisdiction in the matter.

Together with relevant Ministers from other Department, I am tomorrow to meet my hon. Friend to discuss problems of industrial development and employment in the London borough of Ealing.