HC Deb 18 February 1970 vol 796 c402
20. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received from Newbattle District Council in relation to employment opportunities as a consequence of its statutory meeting of January, 1970; and what reply he has sent.

Mr. Ross

None, Sir.

Mr. Eadie

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is a genuine concern in this part of my constituency about the increase in unemployment as a consequence of contraction in the coal-mining industry? What is he prepared to do to assist?

Mr. Ross

My hon. Friend will know that we have had discussions about this with him and others concerned. He will be aware that in respect of the closure of the Easthouses Colliery, the run-down of which is now proceeding, although over 800 miners are affected, actual redundancy when the colliery is closed down will be about 200. In the travel-to-work area it is expected that just over 1,000 jobs, of which 435 will be for men, will arise over the next few years.