SHORT-TIME WORKING AND MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

Early day motion 682, tabled 3 February 2009 by Angela Smith (Labour). Signed by 94 members.

That this House recognises the importance of a highly-skilled workforce to the future of the UK economy; further recognises that manufacturing in the UK needs to retain its skilled workers in order to exploit the opportunities on offer when economic growth returns; understands that many skilled workers in manufacturing are being asked to work short-time and that this could put severe pressure on their finances; further recognises that for many skilled workers the only option may be to leave manufacturing and seek full-time employment elsewhere; calls on the UK Government to look at all options for helping manufacturers retain skilled workers in the current climate, including possible adjustments to the tax credit system; and demands that manufacturers continue to invest in the training budget and skills of their workforce in anticipation of potential growth of the UK's manufacturing base in the future.

Signatures by party: Labour 83, Liberal Democrat 5, Independent 3, Conservative 1, DUP 1, Plaid Cymru 1.