§ 51. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the decision of Imperial Chemical Industries to close down the Sabulite explosive factory at Haswell, County Durham; and what are the prospects of alternative employment for workers in the factory who lose their employment.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodYes, Sir. The labour force at this factory has fallen by nearly 100, including 13 men who were discharged early this month. My local officers are doing everything possible to submit those affected to other employment and only 4 men and 15 women who last worked at this factory are now registered as unemployed at Haswell.
§ Mr. ShinwellAs there is a prospect of further unemployment in the area, will the right hon. Gentleman prod his colleague the President of the Board of Trade—I do not want to enter into competition with other hon. Members in order to secure factories and all the rest of it—so that some attention is paid to this constituency?
§ Mr. MacleodThere is certainly a problem here, and in view of the particular circumstances of this factory, it may be a developing problem. Certainly, I will keep in touch with my right hon. Friend.