Press Release
Tom Clarke MP Demands Jobs For Gartcosh
Amid the gloomy unemployment statistics recently published local MP Tom Clarke requested a meeting with Scottish Enterprise officials During the meeting a variety of issues were raised from Banks not lending to small businesses, to the downturn of the construction industry, and the lack of evident activity on Gartcosh Business Park.
The MP welcomed the news that the Scottish Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) had purchased land for their new headquarters on the Gartcosh site but he was keen to know when this would be fully developed. Urging Scottish Enterprise to step up their efforts, the MP stressed: “I made it clear to the Officials that in a time of recession and given the considerable public investment in Gartcosh Business Park it was time that the full potential of this site was realised. In terms of the vision location connections and opportunity this site has it all and more importantly it has the capacity to employ around 1200 people, that’s what I want to see happen sooner rather than later. And when that happens, unemployment will start to come down.”
The MP continued "We are seeing more immediate and decisive action from the Government to cut the red-tape and simplify the development of public projects. I want to see more information given to small businesses and above all else increased pressure on the banks to lend to businesses. I also want to see the Private sector demonstrate confidence by the development of projects; it cannot all be done by Government. With the combined effort of Public and Private sector investment we can come through this recession.”
Mr Clarke concluded: "Many small businesses are very frustrated and believe that Government help has been given to the larger corporations. The Pre-Budget Report which will be early next month is a pivotal opportunity for the Government to demonstrate increased support for small businesses before next year's general election. However, it is also an opportunity for the Government to introduce measures that can make a real difference to the country's economic growth. That is why I will be speaking to the Chancellor Alistair Darling and spelling out in detail the concerns that have been expressed to me by small businesses. Scottish Enterprise Officials welcomed the fact that I am willing to go direct to the Chancellor on this subject”.