§ 25. Mr. Edelmanasked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the proposed progressive closure of Smith's Stamping Works (Coventry) Limited, with a view to ending production by the end of September, 1967; and, in view of the effect that the projected closure is likely to have on a number of manual workers, many of whom have no other trade than that associated with the stamping and drop-forging industry, what action is being taken to help the workers concerned.
§ Mr. FernyhoughI am sorry to delay the House. I have got the Answer with me somewhere.
§ Dame Irene WardCan we help the hon. Gentleman?
§ Mr. FernyhoughI will help myself in a moment. I could give the Answer off the cuff. It is "Yes"—[Interruption.]—I know what it is, because I have read it before. The Answer is, yes. The employment exchange is making arrangements to ensure that redundant workers are given all possible help to find other suitable work. Retraining will be considered in suitable cases.
§ Mr. EdelmanI thank my hon. Friend for that intention. Will he bear in mind that the closure of these long-established works is likely to be attended by considerable hardship to men of quite unique skill? In these circumstances will he explore, with the firm and also with the Iron and Steel Board, the possibility of keeping the firm in production?
§ Mr. FernyhoughWe will certainly look into that suggestion, but I could not give any promises beyond that.