§ Mr. Cryerasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the current situation of the De Lorean Car Co. Ltd., of Dunmurry; what sale levels are currently being achieved in the United States of America; what plans exist for sales in Europe; and if he intends to discuss such matters with the receiver.
§ Mr. Adam ButlerThe joint receivers and managers of De Lorean Motor Cars Limited announced on 24 May that they were suspending production of cars in Belfast and would be making almost all of the employees redundant on 31 May. They felt that continuing production could not be justified because of the withdrawal of a prospective investor in the business and the availability of large stocks of finished cars in the United States of America and in Belfast.
Sales of cars by dealers in the United States of America have been affected by the general uncertainty surrounding the company's future, but I understand that dealers have reported that some 80 cars were sold at retail from 1 to 20 May.
A preliminary survey of potential sales in Europe has concluded that only a small number of cars could be sold unless homologation requirements for each of the major markets were met.
Whilst setting in hand preparations for the realisation of the company's assets the receivers and managers have made it clear that they will carefully consider any serious interest which might result in a viable future for the business.