Mr. Ted Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he is in a position to report on the discussions between his Department and the management of Abex Engineered Products, Newton Aycliffe, concerning a possible National Enterprise Board involvement.
§ Mr. CryerOfficials have been discussing the closure of Abex Engineered Products Limited, Newton Aycliffe, with all interested parties. These have included the American owners of Abex, to322W see whether they would rescind their decision to close the company. Unfortunately, it now seems unlikely that the closure of Abex Engineered Products Limited can be avoided. But in view of the loss of employment in the area and the importance of Abex to the United Kingdom tyre industry, I am anxious to ensure that all other possibilities are considered.
I understand that the National Enterprise Board is aware of the problem.