§ 24. Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Employment what steps he is taking to find employment for the redundant employees of Windsor Pottery Works, Stoke-on-Trent.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithMy Department will make every effort to find alternative employment for those who are to become redundant. Arrangements have been made for a job team to begin interviewing at the pottery during week commencing 3rd May, following a special canvass for jobs in the surrounding area.
§ Mr. AshleyI appreciate the energetic action taken by the Minister's Department. Will he ask his officials to have special regard for the older workers concerned, who have difficulties in finding alternative employment immediately?
§ Mr. SmithYes, Sir, I can give that assurance. The Stoke unemployment rate for men is 0.2 per cent, less than the national average, so there is reasonable hope that most of the 150 or so workers will find other employment.