§ 70. Mr. Tony LloydTo ask the Secretary of Stale for Northern Ireland when he will next meet trade union representatives from Harland and Wolff; and if he will make-a statement.
§ Mr. ViggersI have no immediate plans for a further meeting with trade union representatives from Harland and Wolff. I last meet representatives of the Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions on 31 October 1988, when we exchanged views on the future of the company, and I have since written to the confederation in response to a paper which the representatives left with me. A copy of this response has been placed in the Library.
§ 71. Mr. Ron DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps are being taken to secure new orders for Harland and Wolff; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ViggersThe Government believe that the best prospects for Harland and Wolff lie in its return to the private sector and they are not willing to permit the company to enter into new contracts until future arrangements for the yard are resolved.