§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether, in deciding on Spillers-French's proposal to extend their 27W factory at Wisbech, he put forward any suggestions which would have provided alternative employment in North Shields for those losing their jobs through the closure of Spiller's old factory there; and how many new jobs will be provided in Wisbech.
Mr. Alan WilliamsThe possibility of financial assistance to retain production in North Shields was explored, unsuccessfully, with the company. It was clear from my discussions with Spillers Foods Limited that it was not possible for the company to provide alternative jobs at North Shields to help offset the effect of the proposed closure.