Dundee

Oral Answers to Questions — Industry, Trade and Regional Development – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 18 Mehefin 1964.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Peter Doig Mr Peter Doig , Dundee West 12:00, 18 Mehefin 1964

asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development how many new jobs have been provided in Dundee since 1951, excluding additions to firms already in Dundee in 1951.

Photo of Mr Edward Du Cann Mr Edward Du Cann , Taunton

Firms new to Dundee since 1951 are now employing about 1,200 persons.

Photo of Mr Peter Doig Mr Peter Doig , Dundee West

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that that is a deplorable figure for such a long period in respect of an officially designated development area? Is the Minister aware that more jobs have been lost through the closure of foundries and the contraction of the shipyards than have been brought there? Would he agree that were it not for the new industries brought to the area by the last Labour Government, Dundee would be in a very sad state today?

Photo of Mr Edward Du Cann Mr Edward Du Cann , Taunton

The hon. Gentleman's Question relates to new industries coming to Dundee. This matter ought to be considered in the context of the large expansions of existing firms and of further plans for the future, of which he is aware. That gives a balanced picture. To take one factor on its own is not representative.

Mr. Gilmour:

Can my right hon. Friend say what the rate of unemployment is in Dundee, as compared with the rest of Scotland, as a result of the new jobs offered?

Photo of Mr Edward Du Cann Mr Edward Du Cann , Taunton

The figure of unemployment in Dundee in May, 1964, was 2·8 per cent., and there is no doubt that it has been reduced partly as a result of Her Majesty's Government's efforts.