HC Deb 09 February 1989 vol 146 cc786-7W
13. Mr. Jim Marshall

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the future of Shorts plc.

Mr. Tom King

The Government believe that the best prospects for Shorts are in the private sector. An information memorandum was issued on 10 January to a number of prospective purchasers inviting them to submit preliminary proposals. From these a short list of potential buyers will be drawn up and detailed negotiations will start as soon as possible.

At the request of a number of interested parties, the date for receipt of preliminary proposals has been extended from 10 February to 17 February.