Hualon Project (Hansard, 1 December 1994)

§ Mr. Beggs
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the current position and future of the Hualon project in Northern Ireland.

§ Mr. Ancram
All necessary approvals for the project are in place and further progress and the release of the first tranche of IDB money depends on Hualon fulfilling certain obligations contained in the agreement with the Industrial Development Board.
The British Apparel and Textile Confederation lodged an appeal on 30 November with the European Court of Justice.

§ Mrs. Ann Winterton
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will now review his decision to proceed with grant payments to the Hualon Corporation.

§ Mr. Ancram
My right hon. and learned Friend has recently reviewed and confirmed his decision, the implementation of which will depend upon the fulfilment by Hualon of certain preconditions.
We have no plans for a further review.

§ Mr. Nicholas Winterton
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he last met representatives of the Hualon Corporation.

§ Sir Patrick Mayhew
On 9 June 1994.

§ Mr. Dowd
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement regarding aid to the Hualon Corporation.

§ Mr. Ancram
The Hualon project, which will make a major reduction in unemployment, was the subject of a lengthy and detailed appraisal before the decision to offer assistance was taken.
The advice of independent consultants was obtained and the project has received all the necessary approvals from HMG and the EC. To date no assistance has been paid, and none will be until certain pre-conditions are satisfied.