HC Deb 11 April 1967 vol 744 c954
15. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Technology what information he has from European Free Trade Association and other international sources about Government help to the Swedish competitors of the United Kingdom's shipbuilding industry.

Mr. Dell

According to a report of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development in 1965, Swedish official assistance includes Government participation in one yard, Government guarantees for shipbuilding finance generally, credit facilities for export orders and fiscal relief on shipbuilding and ships' components.

We have no information to suggest that this position has changed.

Mr. Digby

Is it not a fact that, despite the relatively good competitive position of the Swedish yards, they are about to receive new help from their Government?

Mr. Dell

We have heard reports that the Swedish Government have agreed to provide improved credit facilities on condition that yards amalgamate, but we have had no confirmation of that.