HC Deb 24 March 1982 vol 20 c376W
Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he was first informed of the impending closure of Burroughs in Glenrothes; and if he is trying to find an alternative owner of the factory.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

I was first informed of the impending closure on 1 March. The locate in Scotland unit, in co-operation with Glenrothes Development Corporation and Fife regional council, is making every effort to find a new owner for the factory.

Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will pay a visit to Glenrothes to discuss with trades union and other public representatives the closure later in the current year of the Burroughs factory with the loss of 400 jobs.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

My right hon. Friend has no plans to do so. The proposed closure is a matter entirely between the company and its employees.

Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the total of public financial assistance given to Burroughs in Glenrothes from 1969 to the end of the financial year 1981–82.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

No financial assistance has been given to Burroughs at Glenrothes, under the schemes for which my right hon. Friend is responsible.

Questions on regional development grants and other Government assistance should be directed to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry.