§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what arrangements he has made to ensure that no further expense is incurred by Her Majesty's Government after the handing over of the recently ordered vessel to replace the RMS St. Helena, in the event of Hall Russell of Aberdeen going into liquidation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorThe contract for this ship has not yet been finalised, but will require Hall Russell to provide a post-delivery guarantee backed by a bond equivalent to some 2 per cent. of the contract price. Manufacturers of major items of equipment, such as engines, will provide separate warranty cover in accordance with normal commercial arrangements.