§ 55. Mr. Waddingtonasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity what steps she proposes to take in view of the sudden decline in jobs in Colne as a result of the decision of Smith's Industries Limited not to rebuild their factory in the town, the decision of H. Houldsworth (Colne) Limited to cease production and the decision of Bairdtex Limited and W. and J. Sagar Limited to reduce the number of employees.
§ Mr. Dell:My local employment officers will continue to do all they can to help those affected by recent redundancies in Colne to find suitable new jobs or training opportunities where appropriate. Two of these recent redundancies resulted from accidental fire damage to premises and plant, but the Government are aware of the long-term industrial trends in North-East Lancashire and designation as an intermediate area should do much to alleviate its problems.