§ 4. Mr. Duffyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what equity and control the Government will receive in Harland and Wolff as a result of the recent injection of public funds.
§ Mr. David HowellDiscussions about the terms and conditions of assistance are still proceeding.
§ Mr. DuffyJustice to the British taxpayer apart, does not the hon. Gentleman 727 think that now is the time to project the issue of public ownership on to the Northern Ireland scene, so that it can substitute increasingly for some of the dangerous nonsense which still masquerades for relevant political thought and which will be so much in evidence on many political platforms next Wednesday?
§ Mr. HowellI do not know about projecting the issue of public ownership. The Government have given substantial help to Harland and Wolff, and holds a 47.6 per cent. interest in the concern. This gives the Ministry of Commerce of Northern Ireland and the Department of Trade and Industry certain powers. No doubt a sensible arrangement can be made to the advantage of all who are working there.
§ Mr. McMasterWill my hon. Friend affirm the Government's confidence in the efficiency and high productivity of the labour force and the efficiency of the board of Harland and Wolff? Will he state that he has no intention of interfering in any way which might damage the company and the board?
§ Mr. HowellI certainly confirm my complete confidence in the board and the company.