HC Deb 06 December 1961 vol 650 cc162-3W
62. Miss Harvie Anderson

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether in awarding the contract for the assault ship, he will bear in mind the need for the Clyde to receive extra orders for naval ships.

67. Sir D. Campbell

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty when the contract for a new assault ship will be announced.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

For some time now it has been our policy to arrange contracts for new naval construction as far as practicable on the basis of competitive tendering. During the past twelve months naval ships to a total value of £25 million have been ordered from Clyde shipbuilders.

Tenders for the assault ship, which is of novel design, were invited from all British warship builders believed to be capable of delivering such a vessel in the time, required. Six tenders at fixed prices were received, including two from Clyde firms. That of Messrs. Harland & Wolff of Belfast, which was the lowest, has been accepted. I am sure this firm's success will be most welcome in Belfast.