HC Deb 15 March 1976 vol 907 c410W
Mrs. Chalker

asked the Secretary of State for Industry when he expects to make a decision on the siting of the headquarters of British Shipbuilders.

Mr. Kaufman

Before vesting day.

Mr. Trotter

asked the Secretary of State for Industry on what activities the Steering Committee for the nationalisation of the shipbuilding industry has been engaged since its inception; and whether he is satisfied with its progress.

Mr. Kaufman

The main activity of the Organising Committee for British Shipbuilders since its inception has been the preparation of plans for vesting and for the initial organisation. In a programme of fact-finding visits to all the companies to be nationalised the Committee has to date visited 44 yards or works and held 70 meetings with employees at all levels to get their views on aspects of nationalisation including industrial democracy. The Committee has been devoting considerable effort to the immediate problem of shortage of shipbuilding orders and has had discussions with representatives of related industries, with financial institutions and with potential customers. There have also been regular consultations with Government and with the CSEU. The Committee has made an excellent start and I am very satisfied with its progress.