§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Industry on what date he consulted the CBI as to the action to be taken by his Department concerning Court Line; whether the consultation was by letter, at a meeting or by telephone; what up to date financial information was provided to the CBI; whether it was asked for an immediate reply; and, if not, how long it was given to express its views.
§ Mr. BennA senior official of my Department sought a discussion with the Director-General of the CBI on the after264W noon of 24th June to ask whether the CBI wished to offer any advice on action the Government might take in response to Court Line's approach for financial help. A meeting could not be arranged until the morning of 25th June. The up-to-date financial information available to the Government had been supplied by Court Line in confidence, and was not therefore passed on to the CBI. The CBI was informed that the urgency of the situation was such that the Government would have to take a decision the following morning. The director-general told the Department on the afternoon of 25th June that in the circumstances, and without being able to study up-to-date information, the CBI was unable to comment.
§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he intends to take over from Court Line Limited the business of its subsidiary company K and L Marine Equipment Ltd; and if he will give a breakdown of its turnover between marine engineering and non-marine engineering for its last financial year.
§ Mr. MeacherThis company forms part of the shipbuilding interests of Court Shipbuilders, and will therefore be acquired by the Government. I do not yet have available the information which the hon. Member requests.