HC Deb 27 July 1999 vol 336 cc212-3W
21. Mr. Galloway

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he will next meet the Scottish TUC to discuss UK Government assistance for the Scottish shipbuilding industry; and if he will make a statement. [91618]

Dr. Reid

The STUC have not so far requested a meeting with me to discuss the shipbuilding industry in Scotland. The Scottish Executive is in regular discussion with the STUC on issues affecting the shipbuilding industry. The Department of Trade and Industry, which retains overall responsibility for the shipbuilding industry in the UK, also has continuing discussions in its Shipbuilding Forum with all parties that have an interest in the competitiveness of the industry.