Lucas Sales and Service (UK) (Liverpool)

HC Deb 23 May 1980 vol 985 cc441-2W

Mr. Alton

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement on the closure of Lucas Sales and Service (UK), Edge Lane, Liverpool, depot.

Mr. Jim Lester

Lucas Sales and Service (UK) Limited announced on 19 May that it was to close its depot at Edge Lane, Liverpool, following substantial losses. The plant currently employs 33 people and I understand that Lucas hope to be able to offer some of the workers employment at its other depots in the area.

The local jobcentre manager has been in touch with the company to make arrangements to discuss the facilities which the Manpower Services Commission can offer any workers who are to lose their jobs.

The only financial assistance which my Department can offer to help avert redundancies is through the temporary short-time working compensation scheme. The company has been advised of the scheme but feels it will not help it in its present circumstances.