§ Mr. Stephen Rossasked the Secretary of State for Employment what representations he has received concerning the future of the annexe to the Southampton skillcentre; if he will now reconsider his decision to close down the annexe; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe skillcentre training agency's proposals to the Manpower Services Commission for the future development of the skillcentre network were announced by my right hon. Friend on 29 November 1984, at column 1108. Since then, my right hon. Friend and I have received two letters about the proposed closure of the annexe to Southampton skillcentre. I know that the commission chairman has also received a number of letters on the subject and that meetings have been held between his officials and Southampton city council, Hampshire county council and the Hampshire development association.
The commission endorsed the agency's proposals when it met on 24 January.
We are considering the commission's advice.