§ Sir Michael McNair-WilsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he has any plans to improve(a) the security fence and (b) general security at the missile production facility belonging to Short's in Belfast.
§ Mr. Ian Stewart[holding answer 2 May 1989]: Since the theft in October last year from a Short's factory, there has been a review of security arrangements at all Short's establishments. A number of additional security measures, both physical and procedural, either have already been, or are being, implemented following that review. Security arrangements at all establishments belonging to Short's are the primary responsibility of the company, though my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State maintains, given his overall responsibility for security in Northern Ireland, a close interest in such matters.
§ Mr. Neil HamiltonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he expects to be in a position to announce the new owner of Short Brothers plc; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Viggers[holding answer 11 May 1989]: I have now received detailed proposals from Fokker/GEC and Bombardier. The two proposals are different in nature but both offer considerable opportunities for Short's. It will take some time to evaluate them fully, but I am conscious of the need to end any uncertainty about the future of the company as soon as possible.