HC Deb 24 July 1975 vol 896 c322W
15. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he can make a progress report on the latest financial position of Harland and Wolff.

Mr. Orme

As the hon. Member is aware, the company is incurring losses on its existing order book and is at present receiving loan assistance from the Department of Commerce to meet its cash requirements under the terms of the Shipbuilding Industry (Northern Ireland) Order 1975. The company cannot enter into new shipbuilding contracts without the approval of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State.

In preparation for the debate on the Draft Shipbuilding Industry (No. 2) Order, which was laid on 9th July, the published accounts of this company for the financial year ended 31st December 1974 have been placed in the Library and a special information document is being prepared which will be made available to Members before the debate.