HC Deb 04 April 2001 vol 366 cc229-30W
22. Mr. Flynn

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary on proposals to assist redundant manufacturing workers. [155513]

Mr. Paul Murphy

I meet the First Secretary regularly and discuss a wide range of issues including manufacturing.

The Prime Minister confirmed on 14 March that areas that have been affected by large scale redundancies will be helped by a job transition service (JTS). This JTS will focus on matching skills of those made jobless to the jobs offered in the changing economy.

In addition, areas affected by steel and other significant job losses currently have access to an on-site jobshop to offer help with all aspects of job search, training and benefits advice, staffed by the Employment Service Rapid Response Unit.