§ Mr. Leadbitterasked the Minister of Technology what discussions he has had with the interests concerned on the shipbuilding capacity of the United Kingdom in the 1970s; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FowlerThe capacity of the shipbuilding industry in the 1970s will be determined by the reorganisation now6W taking place in the industry. I am in constant touch with the Shipbuilding Industry Board and with shipbuilders on matters arising out of this reorganisation.
§ Mr. Leadbitterasked the Minister of Technology what proposals he has received, and what discussions he has had, on a larger shipbuilding group in the North East; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FowlerThe bigger Tyne yards are now in a group in which the Furness yard on the Tees is now to be absorbed at the end of the year. The other Tees yard as well as some of the smaller yards in the North East are already associated with this group. The five Wear yards will for the present be operated by two companies.