HC Deb 19 December 1967 vol 756 cc336-7W
32.Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Minister of Technology what was the total value of contracts on the order books of British shipyards at the most recent date for which figures are available; and what part of this total related to firms in the Clyde district.

Mr. Fowler:

£470 million and £108 million respectively at 30th September.

33.Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a statement on the progress which has been made in negotiating a merger of firms in the upper reaches of the Clyde; and if it is the Government's intention to acquire an equity stake in the new organisation.

37. Mr. Galbraith

asked the Minister of Technology to what extent it is the Government's policy to hold shares in the new Clyde Shipbuilding Consortium.

Mr. Fowler:

Five shipyards on the Upper Clyde have agreed on terms for a merger of their shipbuilding interests. The Shipbuilding Board has agreed in principle to give financial assistance to the new group and my right hon. Friend is now examining, with the Board, both the amount and nature of that assistance.