§ Mr. Harry Howarthasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that it is the intention of Richard Thomas and Baldwins to close the iron ore mine at Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire, on 30th September; if he will take steps to prevent this; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DiamondI am informed that there is no longer a suitable economic use for the ore from the Irthlingborough Mine, and Richard Thomas and Baldwins have decided to close it. Approximately 200 redundancies will result. Many of those displaced will be offered employment with the firm in other areas. The rate of unemployment locally is low and vacancies for men outnumber the unemployed. Redundancy payments are being discussed with the unions. In these circumstances the Government does not consider that there is any reason for it to intervene.