§ 46. Mr. Shortasked the Prime Minister what reply he has sent to the letter he received from the Town Clerk of Newcastle-upon-Tyne regarding the replacement of the "Queen" liners.
§ The Prime MinisterThe letter from the Town Clerk of Newcastle-upon-Tyne was acknowledged and he was informed that the views of the Council had been noted.
§ Mr. ShortWill the Prime Minister bear in mind that the shipyards on Tyneside pay a great deal in taxation, as do other shipyards, and that if there is to be a large subvention from public funds to this project, we certainly want the right to tender for the two ships?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir, but that stage has not been reached yet. We are awaiting the proposals from the Cunard 1421 Company and there will be quite a long period to discuss the financial aspects of the matter.
§ Sir J. HutchisonWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind that there is another river interested in the replacement of these vessels, namely, the Clyde?
§ The Prime MinisterOh, yes, and I have had questions about the Mersey, too.