HC Deb 27 July 1982 vol 28 c437W
Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if Her Majesty's Government will give financial assistance for the replacement of the "Atlantic Conveyor" to enable it to be built in a British shipyard.

Mr. Butcher

The Government already provide considerable assistance to British Shipbuilders. Since coming to office they have advanced sums approaching £600 million to the corporation. However, discussions are taking place with Cunard about possible ways of closing the price gap between British Shipbuilders' offer and its competitors' bids.