Conservative Party Leader David Cameron was in Halifax today to discuss the proposed takeover of HBOS by Lloyds TSB.
He had a series of private meetings at the bank’s headquarters in the town before traveling to Halifax Town Hall for a discussion in the impact of the takeover on Calderdale.
Present at the meeting were representatives from Calderdale Council, Yorkshire Forward, local businesses and the two Conservative Parliamentary Candidates for the area.
David Cameron said:
"I felt it was important to come to Halifax to hear, at first hand, a variety of views on the proposed takeover of HBOS.
"I know this is a major issue for Calderdale and that thousands of people are unsure of what the future holds. In these difficult economic times, I was pleased to hear that there is a commitment from HBOS themselves, as well as from Calderdale Council and Yorkshire Forward, to help any workers who may be affected by the takeover.
"I will make sure that I continue to follow closely what is happening in the town over the coming weeks and months."
Craig Whittaker, Parliamentary Candidate for the Calder Valley, said:
"We were pleased to welcome David to Calderdale to listen to the views of HBOS, the Council and local businesses on the importance of the bank to this area and the impact any job losses could have. He was left in no doubt of the potential difficulties for the town in the future but pledged to do what he could to support staff, residents and businesses."
Philip Allott, Parliamentary Candidate for Halifax, added:
"People across Halifax are living through worrying times with the economic problems around the globe are being acutely felt in our town. As Conservatives in Calderdale, we will continue to pass on our thoughts and concerns to David Cameron to make sure our town is not forgotten."