§ Mr. R. W. Elliottasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the decision to move contracts for Chieftan tanks and naval arms from Tyneside to Leeds and Barrow-in-Furness will result in 1,500 workers on Tyneside becoming redundant; what steps he proposes to take to find alternative employment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Fernyhough:Although there has been a run-down of labour at the firm concerned during recent months there is no evidence that the removal of these particu- 390W lar contracts from Tyneside will cause redundancies on this scale. I am however watching the situation closely and my Ministry will give all possible assistance to the redundant workers should the need arise.