§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on the consequences for British industry of the employment chapter negotiated at Amsterdam. [5745]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithThe new employment chapter has the potential to provide significant benefits to firms and individuals in the UK. It makes clear the importance of promoting a skilled and adaptable workforce and flexible labour markets responsive to economic change. The chapter will allow co-ordination of Member States" employment policies where appropriate, while restating that primary responsibility for employment matters will continue to lie with Member States.