HC Deb 01 July 1971 vol 820 cc195-7W
Q8. Mr. Ashton

asked the Prime Minister whether, when he met the deputation from Upper Clyde Shipbuilders' shop stewards, he discussed with them how unemployment could be reduced.

The Prime Minister

I discussed with the deputation the measures which were being taken, in conjunction with the provisional liquidator, to keep the work force intact while the team of advisers investigated the possibilities of reconstruction. I also explained that we had responded to the employment problems of Clyde- side by making it a special development area last February.

Q16. Dr. Dickson Mabon

asked the Prime Minister what arrangements he has made for inter-departmental co-ordination in dealing with the problems of Upper Clyde Shipbuilders Limited.

The Prime Minister

There is already close co-ordination between all the Departments concerned.

Q17. Mr. Millan

asked the Prime Minister what representations he has received about Upper Clyde Shipbuilders Limited; and what replies he has sent.

Q19. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Prime Minister, how many representations he has received, from individuals and organisations, respectively, concerning the future of Upper Clyde Shipbuilders; and what replies he has sent.

The Prime Minister

I have met the Lord Provost of Glasgow and representatives of Glasgow Corporation, of the Scottish Trades Union Congress and of Upper Clyde Shipbuilders shop stewards. I have also received a number of telegrams and letters. The replies describe the facts of the situation and the response of the Government, as they have been explained to the House.

Q21. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement on the discussions which he held with shop stewards from the Upper Clyde shipyards at No. 10 Downing Street on Wednesday, 16th June, 1971.

Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on his talks with trades union representatives on Wednesday, 16th June, concerning the future of the shipbuilding industry in Scotland.

The Prime Minister

The deputation expressed to me its concern about the future of shipbuilding on the Upper Clyde. In reply I set out the facts of the situation, pointing out that there was no indication of when Upper Clyde Shipbuilders could be expected to return to solvency. I emphasised that the Government wished to maintain shipbuilding on the Upper Clyde; and that measures were being taken, in conjunction with the provisional liquidator, to keep the work force intact while the team of advisers investigated the possibilities for reconstruction.