§ Mr. McMahonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what effort was made by his Department to ensure the future of Seaborn Industries (Sheltered Workshops) in Govan; and whether he proposes to reimburse any part of the research fund of the Scottish Epilepsy Society used to keep the workshop in operation.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherMy Department has maintained close contact with the Manpower Services Commission, which administers the programme of support for sheltered employment, about the future of Seaborn Industries. I am satisfied that the commission has made every effort possible to help the Scottish Epilepsy Association to resolve the financial difficulties at Seaborn Industries and, through its sheltered employment procurement and consultancy service, to obtain sufficient orders to keep the workshop fully operational. I am also satisfied that the commission has made the maximum possible financial assistance available to Seaborn Industries consistent with its responsibilities under the Disabled Persons Employment Act 1944 and its responsibilities to other sheltered workshops, and I regret that further financial assistance cannot be made available.