§ Mr. Bellinghamasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement about Government funding to Short Brothers plc, for the year ending 31 March 1987.
§ Mr. Tom KingFollowing consideration of Shorts' 1985 corporate plan update, the Government have authorised an external funding limit of £36 million covering the period 1 April 1986 to 31 March 1987. The Government are, however, concerned about the downturn in Shorts' financial performance in 1985–86 and will be reviewing shortly the strategic plans for the business with the company. In addition, the normal close monitoring of the company's performance will be maintained.
Government policy in relation to those dealing with the company remains as stated in the House of Commons on 23 December 1981, at column 411.