14 Dec 1999
Secretary of State for Scotland, John Reid described today's announcement by BAE SYSTEMS and Kvaerner as a massive vote of confidence in the skills and dedication of the workforce at the Govan yard.
Mr Reid said:
"Today's announcement that BAE SYSTEMS will take over the operation of the Govan yard is tremendous news for the workforce and dispels the uncertainty that was hanging over the future of the yard.
"The fact that an agreement has been reached is tribute to the enormous efforts made by all those who have been involved in securing the deal. It is an example of what can be achieved when Government, the private sector, management and trade unions all work together in genuine partnership.
"Govan is a modern productive shipyard capable of building ships to the highest possible specification. I hope that BAE SYSTEMS, the new operators at the yard, will be successful in winning new orders and that the yard can now look forward with renewed confidence after what has been a difficult time for everyone, not least the workforce, involved."
NOTE TO NEWS EDITORS
Under the agreement announced today Clydeport plc have acquired the land and buildings at the Govan shipyard from Kvaerner. Clydeport will lease the yard on a 20 year lease to BAE SYSTEMS for shipbuilding. The existing workforce will transfer to BAE SYSTEMS.