§ Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Secretary of State for Industry what action has been taken to implement his decision to offer performances bond and cost escalation insurance for shipbuilding contracts.
§ Mr. VarleyI am pleased to announce that both schemes are now fully operational. My Department is considering applications from shipbuilders on both home and export orders, and on cost escalation insurance for the latter I have agreed with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade that my Department should assume the lead from ECGD.