HC Deb 31 July 1972 vol 842 cc41-2W
Mr. Money

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what proposals were made by the directors of Newton Chamber in his recent discussions with them concerning the suggested closure of Ransomes and Rapier of Ipswich, concerning alternative employment for long-service skilled engineering workers at present employed at the Waterside works.

Mr. Dudley Smith

I was informed at the meeting that the company would be proposing to make about 40 jobs available at Sheffield, mainly for categories such as design and production engineerings. No firm indications were given-concerning skilled engineering craftsmen, but I understand that a number of local firms have already been in touch with the company about such workers becoming available, and I can assure my hon. Friend that the full facilities of my Department would be made available to help in redeployment.

Mr. Money

asked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is now satisfied, following his recent discussions with the directors of Newton Chambers concerning the suggested closure of Ransomes and Rapier of Ipswich, that the announcement of the said proposed closure on 3rd June was within the terms of the Code of Industrial Practice and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Dudley Smith

Authoritative rulings about compliance with the Code of Industrial Relations Practice can be given only by an industrial tribunal or by the Industrial Court. I understand however, that the directors have now informed the trade unions that they are prepared to have full consultations with them and that meanwhile no final decision will be taken on the proposed closure.

Mr. Money

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what proposals were made by the directors of Newton Chambers in his recent discussions with them concerning the suggested closure of Ransomes and Rapier of Ipswich, concerning the position of indentured apprentices with that company.

Mr. Dudley Smith

I was informed at the meeting that about 40 of the 81 apprentices concerned would have completed their apprenticeship by the time the phasing of the proposed closure had been completed and that an undertaking had been given that arrangements would be made for the remainder to complete their apprenticeship. Local offices of the Department would, of course, give all possible help, in association with other interested organisations.

Mr. Money

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what undertaking was given to him by the directors of Newton Chambers during his recent discussions with them concerning the suggested closure of Ransomes and Rapiers of Ipswich, that no such closure of the Waterside works would take place until viable alternative job opportunities were available on the site concerned.

Mr. Dudley Smith

This particular matter was not discussed at the meeting, but the Chairman of Newton Chambers confirmed that no final decision as to closure had yet been taken and that there would be further consultations with the trade unions.