§ Dr. Marshallasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether, in view of the recent announcement that the new shipbuilding subsidies of up to 45 per cent. of contract cost, he is satisfied with the level of construction grants contained in the Industry Act 1972; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantThe construction grants contained in the Industry Act, 1972, provide a level of assistance broadly comparable to similar building subsidies in other major shipbuilding nations. The proposed increase in the Australian subsidy will not affect international shipbuilding competition, as the Australian industry is very small and builds largely for the domestic market.