§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Paymaster General which discussions he has had with General Motors on the employment implications of the future of British Leyland, Bathgate; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangNone. The closure of Bathgate was proposed by the British Leyland board in its 1984 corporate plan which was discussed in detail between the Department of Trade and Industry and British Leyland. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry told the hon. Member on 6 February, the position is unchanged by recent announcements concerning talks between British Leyland and General Motors. Discussions about possible future use of the facility are continuing locally, and my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland is keeping in close touch with British Leyland and has made it clear that he stands ready to help any viable proposition.