Mr. Eddie Griffithsasked the Minister of Power what estimate he has made of the manpower requirements of the British Steel Corporation by 1975 resulting from the implementation of the Corporation's expansion programme; and how this compares with the present manpower position.
§ Mr. MasonThe Corporation intends, with the support of the Government, to increase substantially the productivity of the industry's manpower. I am informed that the number of men in iron and steel manufacturing activities possibly affected by the development programme and productivity bargains during the period to the middle 1970's is likely to be at least 50,000. Of this, about 40,000 would be affected by a plant closure and rationalisation, though some 12,000 might be re-employed in new jobs in parallel developments; the rest of this reduction in manpower would follow from the productivity programmes on which negotiations with the unions have started. Normal wastage, retirement and controlled recruitment should provide for a high proportion of the rundown. The Corporation has highly developed arrangements for consultation with unions and others about plant closures and the loss of job opportunities; it is the general practice to give six months' notice of intended closures, and as much as two or three years' notice in the case of major closures, and full consultations will follow before the intention is confirmed. In carrying out its programme for increased productivity, which will benefit both the country and the industry, the Corporation will have fully in mind the social and regional aspects of all its manpower plans. I shall keep in close touch with the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs and my other colleagues concerned about the regional implications.
§ Mr. James Hamiltonasked the Minister of Power if he will make a statement on the organisation of the British Steel Corporation.
§ Mr. MasonThe Corporation has told me that it considers that the present Group organisation should cease to 137W exist. Further studies are in progress, in which special attention is being given to Scottish, Welsh and regional interests. The Government's decision on any proposals made by the Corporation will be taken and announced only when any proposed new arrangements have been worked out in fuller detail.