§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much of the authorised loan of $30 million has now been paid over to the Lear Fan company; and what payments of interest have so far been received in respect of this loan from public funds.
§ Mr. ButlerTo date the company has received$20,858 million from public funds under the financial assistance agreement concluded in September 1982. Her Majesty's Government agreed to provide up to a maximum of $30 million in the form of loan capital, matching Private sector funds of $60 million. The loan is interest-free for a period.
§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he has received any further requests for assistance with the funding of the Lear Fan project.
§ Mr. ButlerNo.
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§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the present work force employed by the Lear Fan company in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. ButlerA total of 370 employees.
§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many firm orders for the Lear Fan 2100 aircraft the company now has on its books.
§ Mr. ButlerIn September 1982 there were 275 orders for the Lear Fan 2100 aircraft.
The new management of the company embarked on a contract renegotiation exercise. This is continuing, and the company forecasts it will retain a substantial number of firm orders.