SAFEWAY PLC AND CRECHE CLOSURES

Early day motion 1525, tabled 1 July 2002 by Paul Holmes (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 46 members.

That this House notes with concern that Safeway plc are currently consulting over the proposed closure of the creche at their Chesterfield store and that despite the overwhelming number of letters and petition signatures against the scheme, the proposed closure seems to be part of a predetermined nationwide process which has already seen 32 out of 132 creches at Safeway stores closed in order to provide more retail space; and calls upon Safeway plc to show its commitment to corporate social responsibility by reversing the short-sighted programme of closures and instead continuing to provide these highly valued creches, including the special needs provisions; which until now have both attracted custom to the stores and reflected very well upon the corporate image of Safeway stores in the communities they serve.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 29, Labour 11, Scottish National Party 3, Independent 1, Plaid Cymru 1, UUP 1.