§ 88. Mr. Fitchasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many persons living in the Wigan area will become redundant because of the proposed closing of the Irlam Steel Works; and what plans he has for bringing new industries to the Wigan area.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantAbout 10 per cent. of the labour force of the Irlam works lives in Wigan. Redundancies will be spread over several years if the closure is confirmed and their number will be considerably reduced by redeployment, retirement and natural wastage. The industrial development certificate policy is operated liberally in Wigan and certificates will continue to be available both for the expansion of existing firms and for new projects suited to the town's needs and resources.