Written question asked by Linda Perham (Labour) on Monday, 24 January 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 25 January 2000. It was answered by Alan Johnson (Labour) on Tuesday, 25 January 2000 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if he will make a statement about the availability of Shipbuilding Intervention Fund grants for 2000. - Inc figures.

Answer: Ms Perham: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement about the availability of Shipbuilding Intervention Fund grants for 2000. [107148] Mr. Alan Johnson: I have decided to extend the Shipbuilding Intervention Fund for currently eligible shipbuilding yards until 31 December 2000. Last year's rates were the highest possible within the EU's Shipbuilding Regulation for new-build orders--and the Government will be keeping those rates for this year in a bid to help UK shipbuilders win more contracts and compete overseas. The rates of support will be unchanged from those in 1999, namely 9 per cent. for large ships and 4 1/2 per cent. for small ships. Both rates are inclusive of Shipbuilders' Relief of 2 per cent. I will also be extending the Shipbuilding Intervention Fund for conversion contracts at 2.25 per cent.

Secondary information