11 May 2000

ADAM INGRAM MEETS HARLAND AND WOLFF SENIOR MANAGEMENT

Minister of State, Adam Ingram, today met senior management of Harland and Wolff Holdings plc to discuss the £300 million contract announced yesterday for the design and construction of four Ropax vessels and options for a further two vessels.

Speaking after the meeting Mr Ingram said: "Today's meeting was both useful and constructive. Brynjulv Mugaas, Chief Executive Officer at the Yard, outlined details of the contract and we took the opportunity to discuss aspects of financial arrangements.

"We agreed to keep in close contact and to meet again very soon so that I can be kept abreast of developments."