HC Deb 13 May 1981 vol 4 cc767-8
Mr. Malcolm Thornton (Liverpool, Garston)

I beg to ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House, under Standing Order No. 9, for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that should have urgent consideration, namely, the latest British Leyland proposals and the way in which they may affect the BL factory at Speke". There can be no doubt that this is a matter of extreme urgency. Judging from press reports and the briefing note issued to employees, BL's plans are already well advanced. I am anxious, therefore, that, before decisions that may be irrevocable are implemented their full implication and the considerable impact that they will have on employment in Speke are fully considered by the Government.

In an area already cruelly affected by major factory closures, with the loss of thousands of jobs, the loss of a further 1,100 jobs will be insupportable. The factory is not being closed because of poor performance or bad industrial relations. Indeed, Sir Michael Edwardes has stated that work will be directed towards plants that showed the commitment and had the track record to merit BL's support and confidence, and he accepted that the Speke factory fell into that category.

I entirely support the need to return BL to profitability and to ensure that our motor industry has a sound future. Tremendous amounts of public money are being allocated for the survival plans. Equally, very large sums, plus a package of measures for new opportunities, have been allocated by the Government to regenerate industry in the Speke area. It therefore seems entirely inconsistent that the chance for regrowth should be hampered by the erosion of a base upon which the future can be built.

In conclusion, I am asking for an opportunity to see whether BL management can direct new work towards the Speke factory, which has proved that it can do the job and deliver the goods. No amount of promises for the future or pats on the back for the past can compensate the workers at the plant if they lose their jobs. There are no prospects of alternative employment in the area in the near future. If this is not a matter of urgency and concern, I do not know what is.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member for Liverpool, Garston (Mr. Thornton) gave me notice before 12 noon that he would seek leave to move the Adjournment of the House for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that he believes should have urgent consideration, namely, the latest British Leyland proposals and the way in which they may affect the BL factory at Speke". The hon. Gentleman has drawn attention to an important matter. As the House knows, under Standing Order No. 9 I am directed to take account of the various factors set out in the Order but to give no reason for my decision.

I listened with care to the hon. Gentleman. The matters that he raises are of considerable significance to his constituency and beyond, but I have to rule that his submission does not fall within the provisions of the Standing Order and, therefore, I cannot submit his application to the House.

Mr. Fry

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. The BL proposals affect a large number of constituencies, and many hon. Members would like to debate them.

Mr. Speaker

Order. I well understand the hon. Gentleman's feeling. I believe that the next speaker, from another part of the country, wishes to deal with the same matter.