HC Deb 30 June 1980 vol 987 cc379-80W
Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how many school leavers there are without employment in Carlisle and Cumbria, respectively; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Jim Lester

I shall reply to the hon. Member as soon as possible.

Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what action his Department is taking to deal with the increase in the numbers unemployed in Carlisle and Cumbria, as a result of the closure of Courtaulds' mills.

Mr. Jim Lester

All the resources of the Manpower Services Commission are available to help those affected by the closures of the Courtaulds' mills in Carlisle and Cumbria whether they are seeking work or the chance to train for a fresh skill. I understand from the Manpower Services Commission that officials of the employment services division visited both mills to conduct individual interviews with those losing their jobs. Further placing inquiries are being made with local firms.

The Government will continue to pursue economic and industrial policies designed to encourage the regeneration of the country's industrial base which is necessary if we are to create secure and 'lasting employment.

Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is his estimate of the number of redundancies likely in his Department in Carlisle and Cumbria, respectively, as a result of the implementation of the Government's policy of reducing the number of civil servants.

Mr. Mayhew

There are currently no indications that any staff in the Department of Employment group will need to be made redundant in Carlisle and Cumbria, as it is expected that the reductions of staff required can be achieved through natural wastage and redeployment.

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