§ 25. Mr. Websterasked the Minister of Aviation what steps he proposes to take to ensure full employment at the Oldmixon factories at Weston-super-Mare at present occupied by Messrs. Henlys and Westland aircraft.
§ Mr. MartenHenlys at present occupy their premises as agents for the War Office. They have asked if they can lease the factory from the Ministry of Aviation when the War Office contract ends and we are willing to arrange a lease, subject to agreement on terms. Westlands, whose lease from the Department runs till 1980, are at present re-organising their activities and if, as a result, space becomes available at Oldmixon, we are prepared to agree to any resonable proposals for subletting.
§ Mr. WebsterIs my hon. Friend aware that, in addition to the present unemployment figure of 6.3 per cent. or 1,180 in Weston-super-Mare, about 450 will be laid off from one of these factories in May? Is he aware that it is essential that these Government-owned factories should be fully employed? Will he consider the prospect of prefabricated building components in Henlys?
§ Mr. MartenI will certainly give every consideration to that, but Henlys have not yet indicated how many workpeople they 889 are likely to employ, and until Westlands have decided on their reorganisation they cannot say precisely what effect it will have, if any, on the level of employment.