HC Deb 17 May 1960 vol 623 c1077
14. Mrs. Braddock

asked the President of the Board of Trade, in view of the anticipated closure of the Royal Ordnance Factory, Liverpool, by December, 1960, what steps he has taken to ensure the continued use of this well-equipped and easily adaptable factory for other purposes.

Mr. Maudling

Subject to other use by Government Departments and to preemptive rights, the factory will be recommended to suitable firms seeking new production space.

Mrs. Braddock

Will the right hon. Gentleman ensure that as much publicity as possible is given to the fact that this factory will close, and will he make certain that it is not left empty following its closure? There are 575 employees over 50 years of age who may not want to leave the area. Will the right hon. Gentleman, therefore, ensure that some use is made of this factory either by another Department or by private enterprise?

Mr. Maudling

Yes, Sir. That is exactly what we are trying to do.