§ Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will investigate and report on the sudden and serious diminution in work at Tullos Factory, Limited, Aberdeen, which makes agricultural and other machinery; and what immediate steps he is taking to remedy it.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. J. J. Robertson)My right hon. Friend has inquired into the position and he is informed that the reduction in work at the factory of Tullos Ltd., Aberdeen, arises in connection with re-organisation measures, and is expected to be of a temporary nature.
§ Mr. Hector HughesIs the Minister aware that this factory produces machinery which is badly required for home use and for export, and that the diminution in working is completely inexplicable and is inflicting great hardship upon the people who have been dismissed? Will he take steps to see that these people are immediately reinstated in their employment?
§ Mr. RobertsonThe position is being watched very carefully. Only one-third of the employees have been temporarily suspended.
§ Mr. PiratinIn view of the fact that this factory was originally in possession of the Ministry and was trnsferred to private enterprise, would the Minister look into the finance involved in the transaction?
§ Mr. Hector HughesThe Minister said that only a small number of people are temporarily unemployed, but 100 have been dismissed and the position is a serious one for them and their wives and families, as well as for the production of machinery in Scotland.