§ Mr. Edward Lyonsasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will take steps to reduce the dangers of redundancies at Thorn Consumer Electronics Limited, Bradford.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieThe recent relaxation in hire-purchase and rental controls has, I understand, enabled Thorn Consumer Electronics Limited to avoid short-time working at its Bradford factory which previously it had intended to introduce. However, some reduction In the work force remains necessary. As my right hon. Friend the Paymaster-General said in reply to the Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Ince (Mr. McGuire) on 21st January—[Vol. 903, c.493–4]—when the scope for any further changes in these controls and 25 per cent. VAT is reviewed before the spring Budget, all relevant factors, including the employment situation, will be taken into account.