HC Deb 06 November 1987 vol 121 cc914-5W
Mr. Thurnham

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will give the latest estimates of jobs provided in the north-west during 1987 as a result of defence contracts.

Mr. Sainsbury

As a result of refining our statistical records I am now able to give a full reply.

It is estimated that in 1985–86, the latest year for which figures are available, some 23,000 people were directly employed on MOD equipment contracts in the north-west.