§ Mr. Robert Atkinsasked the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to make an announement on the future of Devonport dockyard.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonNegotiations are still continuing with the three bidders for the contract to manage Devonport dockyard. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State does not, therefore, expect to be able to announce the preferred contractor for Devonport until early in the new year. My right hon. Friend will consult the trades unions on this before taking a final decision about the future management of Devonport dockyard.