HC Deb 31 March 1977 vol 929 cc244-5W
Mr. Canavan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what steps will be taken to find alternative employment for laundry workers who lose their jobs as a result of the proposal to transfer laundry work from hospitals in central Scotland to the new prison at Shotts;

(2) what is the estimated job loss for hospital workers and others which will be caused by the proposal to transfer laundry work from hospitals in central Scotland to the new prison at Shotts; and at which establishments such job loss will take place.

(3) which hospital laundries will be closed as a result of the proposal to transfer laundry work from hospitals in central Scotland to the new prison at Shotts.

Mr. Harry Ewing

As presently envisaged, the proposal would entail the closure during the next few years of the laundries at Stirling Royal Infirmary and Strathclyde Hospital, Motherwell, the exact timing being dependent on progress with several related building projects. The loss of about 20 jobs at each of the hospitals would be involved. The health boards have made clear their willingness to make every effort to offer suitable alternative hospital employment to the laundry workers.

Mr. Canavan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the Government first began discussions with trade unions about the proposal to transfer laundry work from hospitals in central Scotland to the new prison at Shotts; and what agreement was reached about the proposal before construction work began.

Mr. Harry Ewing

The unions were first informed of the proposal in 1970 and have been kept informed about the project since. It was not the practice to make formal agreements in matters of this kind, but the union's primary concern that redundancies should be avoided was fully noted.

Mr. Canavan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to implement the proposal to transfer laundry work from hospitals in central Scotland to the new prison at Shotts.

Mr. Harry Ewing

I have arranged to discuss the proposal with the unions concerned on 4th April and will write to my hon. Friend thereafter.

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