asked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the closing of certain heavy industries in Coatbridge, he has any statement to make on future prospects for alternative employment.

I am aware that two small re-rolling plants in Coatbridge have closed but it is hoped that work will be found for a substantial number of the men in the factory on the Greenhill Estate, which is due to start work in two or three months' time, or in new factories on the Newhouse Estate.