§ Mr. Bidwellasked the Secretary of State for Employment what notification and representations he has received concerning Firestone Tyre and Rubber Company's decision to close its plant at Brentford; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Jim LesterThe intended closure of its establishment at Brentford, due on 15 February 1980, was announced by Firestone Tyre and Rubber Co. on 14 November 1979. On that day, the company, in fulfilment of its obligations under section 100 of the Employment Protection Act 1975, notified my Department.
This closure will involve some 1,500 jobs. The Manpower Services Commission has been informed, and has arranged with the company's personnel department for a job centre to be set up on site. This will operate from 9 January and will provide both a self-service and an advisory service on employment prospects and training opportunities. Redundancy payments and benefit office staff will be available to give advice. All employees are being advised in writing about these arrangements.
797WThere has been an encouraging response from a number of firms in the area interested in employing the workers involved, particularly those in skilled occupations. There are also employment opportunities for the unskilled and semiskilled workers, although the terms of employment may not be as attractive as those they have been accustomed to. All employees will be encouraged to stay on site until 15 February.
I have received representations from my hon. Friend the Member for Brent-ford and Isle worth (Mr. Hayhoe) and I shall be informing him of these arrangements.