HC Deb 17 January 1967 vol 739 cc21-2
27. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Technology when he will make available grants for the modernisation of shipyards under the Geddes proposals.

25. Mr. McMaster

asked the Minister of Technology when he intends to introduce legislation necessary to implement the main financial recommendations of the Geddes Committee on Shipbuilding; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of Technology (Mr. Anthony Wedgwood Benn)

I am aiming to introduce legislation, along the lines recommended in the Geddes Report, shortly.

Mr. Digby

Is the Minister aware that the delay is becoming serious and that, while the Government go on delaying and getting behind the programme of Geddes, the situation is deteriorating?

Mr. Benn

There has been no delay. The Government have kept up entirely with the timetable laid down in the Geddes Report. The tax reliefs were granted in the Finance Act. The Shipbuilding Industry Board has been set up. We are now waiting for the shipbuilding firms to submit their merger plans to the Board.

28. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Technology whether he is aware of the need for orders for shipyards, both new ships and conversions, in view of the contraction of the order book; and what steps he proposes to take.

33. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Technology whether he will make a statement on improving credit facilities for British shipowners placing orders for new construction in British yards.

Mr. Benn

Yes, Sir. Though British industry now has over 2 million tons on order, I am aware that some yards will need further business shortly if they are to maintain a smooth flow of work. I am now considering representations made to me by shipbuilders about credit facilities in the light of the overriding need for reorganisation of the industry.

Mr. Digby

Did not Geddes recommend legislation last year, in 1966? Is it not necessary to sustain the home order book—the traditional book—for this industry by doing something quickly about credit facilities?

Mr. Benn

There are two points involved in the hon. Gentleman's question. One is the question of the timetable for the Government under Geddes. It was to the end of last year for the preparation of the legislation. This will come forward within a few weeks of Parliament's meeting in 1967. The other point about credit facilities bearing on the hon. Gentleman's question is that, as I have said, I am considering representations made.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Can my right hon. Friend make an early statement on the question of credit facilities, particularly in view of the type of case I have submitted to him, which affects particularly orders for shipbuilding by home owners, and where there are some real dangers of orders being cancelled unless action is taken promptly.

Mr. Benn

My hon. Friend's representations are among those I have received. I certainly should make a statement as soon as I could.