§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action his Department has taken regarding the offers to purchase the Ailsa shipyard; when he expects an announcement on the future of the yard; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe decision on the sale of the Ailsa shipyard is a matter for British Shipbuilders. It has received bids and is in touch with interested parties. I am sure its decision will be based on a careful assessment of the employment and commercial aspects of the bids, before it invites my comments. I in turn am consulting my hon. Friend, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of Stale for Scotland. I hope that it will be possible to make an announcement about the future of the yard shortly.