BOLTON'S MPs have told Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott he must make a speedy decision on the Fort James/Tesco land swap plans - and come down in favour of the scheme. Ruth Kelly, David Crausby and Brian Iddon all submitted evidence to the public inquiry in January and in a letter to Mr Prescott, who will decide on whether to act on the inspectors recommendations, have repeated their view that the move is vital to secure jobs in Horwich.

Bolton West MP Mrs Kelly said: "We need an early decision so that Fort James and Tesco can begin putting into place the relevant mechanisms to begin swapping sites.

"During the enquiry I pointed out that one of the most important aspects of this application was the effect it would have on the local economy. This is now as important as ever.

"Fort James have committed themselves to Horwich for many years and have put in place proposals to bring added investment for years to come. We now need a speedy decision from John Prescott to ensure that happens." Bolton North East MP Mr Crausby said: "I have written to Planning Minister Nick Raynsford and John Prescott to urge them to make an early decision on this application in order to encourage Fort James to invest in Bolton.

"The retention of manufacturing industry jobs is of paramount importance due to recent job losses in the town. It is vital that we secure jobs for existing employees and create opportunities for expansion. We will lobby the Minister hard to obtain approval for the planning application that will secure a future for Fort James workers in Bolton."

Bolton South East MP Brian Iddon said: "Because Bolton has suffered significant losses of manufacturing jobs in the last few years, it is important that we hang on to all the remaining jobs."

Management and unions met MPs recently to say that the possible seven month delay over a decision would be totally unacceptable and could threaten jobs.

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