House of Commons · Adjournment Debate
25 June 2020 · 3 other contributors
Opened by Liz Twist Lab Blaydon and Consett
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Liz Twist raised concerns about de la rue: gateshead in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The MP highlighted the job losses at the De La Rue site in Gateshead, including the loss of 200 jobs due to the passport contract being awarded to Gemalto and subsequent job losses on the currency production side. The speech detailed the impact on local communities and called for government action to retain skilled jobs in the region. Emphasis was placed on the strategic importance of retaining such high-quality manufacturing jobs and securing future contracts.
Acknowledged the concern for De La Rue's impact in her constituency.
Stressed the importance of high-quality jobs and criticised the decision to award passport production abroad, linking it with the need for government intervention to level up the north-east.
Acknowledged the challenges faced by De La Rue and the impact on employees, while highlighting government support measures in place.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the job losses at De La Rue's Gateshead site, expressing sympathy for those impacted and urging responsible redundancy processes. He detailed the rigorous procurement process that led to the awarding of the new UK passport contract to Thales, emphasising cost savings and security measures. The response included a commitment to support affected workers through rapid response services and unemployment benefits. Minister also highlighted broader government initiatives aimed at economic recovery and support for businesses in the north-east.