HC Deb 16 June 1988 vol 135 c212W
Mr. Latham

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking to recover the outstanding moneys owing to Her Majesty's Government arising out of their investment in De Lorean Motor Cars Ltd.

Mr. Viggers

Claims have been lodged by the Department of Economic Development with the liquidators of the Northern Ireland company, De Lorean Motor Cars Ltd. and the trustee in bankruptcy of the American parent company, De Lorean Motor Company, both of whom have instituted legal actions for the benefit of creditors, including actions against the De Lorean auditors, Arthur Andersen and Co.

Legal proceedings claiming substantial damages have also been taken out in the United States by the Department of Economic Development alleging a number of offences, including negligence and breach of contract against Arthur Andersen and Co.

The joint receivers appointed by the Government in 1982 are also involved in legal proceedings for the recovery of funds. These actions are in London against Lotus Cars Limited, the estate of the late Mr. A. C. B. Chapman, Mr. F. R. Bushell and Mr. J. Z. De Lorean for the recovery of funds believed to have been misappropriated and in Switzerland to recover funds known to be held in Swiss bank accounts. In the United States the joint receivers have lodged claims with the trustee in bankruptcy of the American parent company.