asked the President of the Board of Trade what proposals he has for bringing new industries to the Midlothian area of Scotland.

I welcome new industrial development in the western parts of the county, but I would not feel able to give the remainder priority over those districts in Scotland where there is high and persistent unemployment.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that unemployment has increased a hundredfold since the present Government came into power? What action has he taken following the presentation to him by the Secretary of State for Scotland of the Scottish Council's Report?

I am aware of the facts put forward by the hon. Member.

Is my hon. Friend really saying that he agrees with the statement of the hon. Member for Edinburgh, East (Mr. Willis) that unemployment has increased a hundredfold in Scotland since the Government came to office?

I shall assume—I have not the figures with me—that it must have been from two to four. I am sorry that I did not take up that point, but I would point out that industrial projects at present under construction, or approved but not yet started, are expected to provide 400 additional jobs in Edinburgh and 300 in the rest of the county.