5-12-02

Barrett to propose debate on Scottish manufacturing

John Barrett, Scottish Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, today announced that he will propose a debate in Parliament on the Manufacturing Industry in Scotland next week.

Mr Barrett's name was drawn during the weekly ballot for backbench debates. He will therefore propose the debate in Westminster Hall on Tuesday 10th December.

In a statement, John Barrett MP said:

"Despite a relatively strong economy, the problems facing manufacturing in Scotland are immense and urgently need addressing.

"Grampian Foods, Motorola, NEC and Agilent are just some of the companies which have had to slash manufacturing jobs and regrettably, future prospects look grim. The last report of the Edinburgh & Lothian Economic Forum, which predicted further job losses in the Lothian region, made ominous reading for those looking for regeneration in the manufacturing industry.

"With 440,000 jobs directly or indirectly dependent on Scottish manufacturing, it is crucial for the Government to be taking all necessary steps to support the industry.
"I am delighted I will now be able to highlight this issue in Parliament, something which concerns not just my own constituency but communities across Scotland."

ENDS