§ 11. Mr. Hendryasked the Secretary of State for War what consultations he had with the local authorities before selling Cairnryan military port to Mr. H. G. Pounds.
§ Mr. RamsdenRepresentatives of the local authorities came to see my predecessor at the War Office before we disposed of the port. My right hon. Friend told the hon. Member for Galloway (Mr. Brewis) last week that other Government Departments which had an interest were also concerned in our discussions.
§ Mr. HendryIs it not the case that the undertaking given to Stranraer County Council that it would be consulted before 1377 any contract was entered into was not fulfilled'? Will my hon. Friend say why it was not fulfilled? Is it not the case that Mr. Pounds, the purchaser chosen by my hon. Friend, has not put in an appearance in Stranraer for eighteen months with a view to providing the industry and employment promised in the area?
§ Mr. RamsdenIn regard to the second part of that supplementary question, my right hon. Friend indicated the other day that inquiries were proceeding. I cannot accept that an undertaking in the terms mentioned by my hon. Friend was given to the local authorities, because tender documents are dealt with confidentially and it would not have been possible to tell local authorities details of the bids received or of those who made them.