9 March 2000

 

HARLAND AND WOLFF

Adam Ingram, MP, Minister of State at the Northern Ireland Office, said: "Government has been closely involved with the situation at Harland and Wolff. Discussions involving the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, other parts of Government and the company have taken place over the last few days to help the company obtain this very important order.

"I am pleased to report that Government has been able to respond positively in terms of financial support, including Intervention Aid. I pay tribute to the intensive efforts of my own and other Departments.

"I am determined to ensure that whatever we can realistically do will be done to help this important company compete successfully and profitably for orders which will secure its future and the jobs of the 1,800 people employed at Queen's Island.

"The Government recognises that Harland and Wolff has an important role in the local economy and is also an integral part of the wider British shipbuilding industry. It is essential that the United Kingdom retains an efficient and profitable shipbuilding industry."