Written question asked by Lindsay Hoyle (Labour) on Wednesday, 21 May 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 4 June 2003. It was answered by Alan Johnson (Labour) on Wednesday, 4 June 2003 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make a statement on the imminent closure of Alstom's traction production; and what discussions she (a) has had and (b) will have with officials from Alstom regarding the closure of the new build train production.

Answer: Mr. Lindsay Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the imminent closure of Alstom's traction production; and what discussions she (a) has had and (b) will have with officials from Alstom regarding the closure of the new build train production. [116275] Alan Johnson: It is disappointing that Alstom has chosen to end traction production in Preston. This is a commercial matter for the company but it will have come as a bitter blow to the workforce. We will liaise with regional partners and Job Centre Plus to ensure that individuals are given help to find new jobs or help with new training. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry has held discussions with the company about its general restructuring strategy, announced on 12 March. Ministers and officials will remain in close contact with the company.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 116275; 406 c422W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Closures Engines Redundancy Preston Factories Alstom Rolling stock
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk