17. To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent discussions he has had with Sony Ericsson on its decision to close a research and development facility in Coventry. (310593)

I met with local MPs on this issue before Christmas. The Secretary of State has discussed the closure of Ansty Park at the highest level in Ericsson, probed the company's plans, and pressed it to consider any possible collaborations which might preserve at least some employment at the site.