HC Deb 31 July 1984 vol 65 cc203-4W
Mr. Woodcock

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if, after privatisation, the composite yards of British Shipbuilders will be free to compete for both warship and merchant business as they choose.

Mr. Norman Lamont

Yes.

Mr. Woodcock

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether the privatisation of the British Shipbuilders warship yards is expected to result in lower tenders to Her Majesty's Government for warship construction.

Mr. Norman Lamont

Yes. After privatisation I would expect the yards to become more efficient and that their tenders for warship construction will therefore be lower than they otherwise would have been.