asked the Minister of Labour on what date Messrs. R. K. Dundas, Limited, of Portsmouth, who closed down their works on 6th May last, first notified his Department's local offices of their intention so to do; and what steps he proposes to take to secure the absorption in suitable employment of those discharged.

On 29th April, Messrs. R. K. Dundas Limited notified their intention to close on Friday, 6th May. The normal machinery of the employment exchange service is available to assist those men and women who register to find other suitable employment. As my hon. Friend knows, there is close consultation between the Departments concerned about employment prospects in Portsmouth.