§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his Department's involvement in the future of Ferranti; and when he now expects this to be resolved.
§ Mr. AitkenOfficials of my Department continue to have regular meetings with the receivers of Ferranti International to discuss our current and future business with the company.
I understand that the receivers have been having discussions with prospective purchasers of all or parts of the company. Which bid or bids to accept will be a matter for the receivers. Bids will then be considered under competition legislation, and my Department will be consulted in the normal way. I am unable to say how long this process may take, but I naturally hope that a satisfactory outcome will be achieved without undue delay.