§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the Government's policy for the survival of Harland and Wolff will require the making of part of the labour force redundant; and, if so, what proposals have so far been made by the management for a reduction in the workforce.
§ Mr. Orme, pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 1st December 1975; Vol 901, c. 431], circulated the following, information:
The company is expected to work towards achieving viability within the conditions on which Government have made financial support available. These conditions do not include provision about redundancy. It will be for the company itself to determine the size and nature of the workforce required to meet its production commitments.
I understand that, following a review of manning and performance, management has discussed with the trade unions proposals for making 280 ancillary workers redundant and has also indicated that further redundancy proposals are in prospect.
§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he aims to appoint worker directors to the board of Harland and Wolff; if so, what progress is being made particularly in regard to the co-operation of the trade unions concerned; and when he hopes to make an appointment.
§ Mr. Orme, pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 1st December 1975; Vol 901, c. 431], circulated the following information:
It is intended that the restructured board of Harland and Wolff Limited should consist of a chairman and 15 members, comprising equal numbers of executive directors, worker directors and Government nominated directors. Following full discussion with the trade unions. I have invited them to devise their arrangements for filling the five vacancies 76W for worker directors, after which appointments to the board can be completed. Broad agreement has been reached regarding the arrangements for worker participation at levels below the board.
§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many employees at Harland and Wolff are aged over 65 years; and what is the maximum age of any such employee.
§ Mr. Orme, pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 1st December 1975; Vol 901, c. 431], circulated the following information:
Harland and Wolff has 194 employees over the age of 65; the oldest is 72.