§ 69. Mr. Mayhewasked the Minister of Labour whether his Department was consulted by the General Electric Company before the decision was taken to close down its Woolwich factory, employing 5,500 persons; and what action he is taking to review the employment outlook in the Woolwich area, including the problem set by the influx of 60,000 residents to the new town of Thamesmead.
§ Mr. Gunter:I was given confidential advance information of the company's decision shortly before it was announced. The Company has promised full co-operation and information is being col- 6W lected about the occupations and place of residence of the workers concerned and about suitable vacancies locally and within daily travelling distance. It is too early to assess the effect, if any, of this closure on the employment pattern in Thamesmead. This will be kept under close review with the Greater London Council and the Greenwich and Bexley Councils.