§ 25. Mr. Manuelasked the Minister of Labour how many unemployed were registered at Irvine employment exchange in September last; and what were the comparable figures for September of the previous year.
§ Mr. ManuelIs the Minister aware that these figures of unemployment in Irvine have been greatly aggravated by the premature closing of the Royal Ordnance Factory there? Will he consult the President of the Board of Trade to see that some alternative industry is steered into Irvine to replace what has been taken away directly by Government action?
§ Mr. HeathI understand that the site of the Royal Ordnance Factory at Irvine is being taken over on 1st December by the local authority, who will then convert it into a trading estate. Already it is known that two tenants have been secured for the site and that other inquiries have been received.
§ Mr. ManuelThat seems all very well, but—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. We ought to get on with Questions. There may be an opportunity tomorrow to discuss these matters.