Mr. Ted Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what studies are being undertaken to ascertain the effect that current and future industrial mergers will have on the employment situation.
§ Mr. Dell:There are many industries in which concentration and rationalisation are necessary if the maximum efficiency and international competitiveness is to be achieved and the Government wish to see such reorganisation pursued vigorously, with due regard to the policies for regional development and the general national interest. The employment effects of mergers often cannot be forecast in advance of their completion, but the Government expect companies 32W to co-operate closely with them and the trade unions so as to ensure that any necessary redeployment of labour is orderly and planned. The redundancy payments system and earnings related benefit system are designed to reduce hardship during any periods of transitional unemployment.