Consett and Stanley

Part of Oral Answers to Questions — Employment – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 28 July 1981.

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Photo of Mr David Waddington Mr David Waddington , Clitheroe 12:00, 28 July 1981

The principal reason for the very bad figures is the closure of the steelworks in September 1980 with the loss of no fewer than 3,600 jobs. The problems of the steel industry were not created by the Government. I can hold out hope for the hon. Gentleman. I understand that 1,100 former BSC workers have found new jobs or training since the closure of the works. Consett lies in the North-East special development area and the maximum financial assistance is available from the Department of Industry. Some small firms have set up in the area and the business opportunities programme should persuade many more to go to the area.