§ 14. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Industry, pursuant to his reply to the question of the hon. Member for West Lothian on 15 February, Official Report, column 14, what discussions there have been with Plessey and the management group that is seeking to buy part of the Bathgate business from Plessey.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Industry (Mr. John Wakeham)The Scottish Office and the Department of Industry have been in touch with Plessey on the situation at Bathgate, and the Scottish Office has had discussions with the management group.
§ Mr. DalyellDoes the hon. Gentleman think that the Arcotetronics offer of 80 jobs is genuine?
§ Mr. WakehamMy Department and the Scottish Office are well aware of the overseas company's interest, which is, in our view, serious. It is possible that the company will be asking more formally about what support is available from our Department.