BBC News | SCOTLAND | Shipyard workers take to the streets

A Ł200m Ministry of Defence order for roll-on, roll-off ferries could be highly significant for the future of shipbuilding at the BAE-owned Govan shipyard.

Representatives of the yard's workforce and local politicians took to the streets of Glasgow on Saturday to gather public support for the yard.

These people reflect the working people of Scotland.

Jamie Webster, union convener

Reports this week that the MoD considered UK yards too inexperienced to handle the order were met with dismay and anger by union leaders and politicians on both sides of the border.

Workers and bosses at the Govan yard are convinced the expertise exists at the yard to deliver the highest standards on the MoD order.

Union convener Jamie Webster said the order was absolutely vital to the future of the yard, and for the future of shipbuilding as a whole on the River Clyde.

He added: "We believe the order should come to the Clyde, and when it does, we'll let nobody down."

Jamie Webster: Unbelievable reaction

Mr Webster said the reaction from the public had been unbelievable, but he had expected no less.

He said: "These people reflect the working people of Scotland.

"I watch the women about here and that's where the real support comes from.

"They know what redundancies will mean because they're the ones who run the houses."

Fears persist in the community that the government may place the order overseas.

Mohammed Sarwar: Widespread support

Glasgow Govan MP, Mohammed Sarwar, said he had secured wide political backing for the yard's bid.

He said: "I've had a lot of support from MPs at Westminster, the Scottish Executive has shown its full commitment, and the Secretary of State has given his full support.

"But there has been no firm commitment as yet from the government."

Workers' representatives believe failure to win the giant order could be the final blow for Govan, and cast a shadow over the survival of shipbuilding on the Clyde.

Their task now is to persuade the government that allowing the yard to close would outrage Scottish opinion.

Next week they take their lobbying efforts to Westminster, where the final decision on the ferry contract will be made.

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See also:

29 Mar 00 | Scotland
Blair pressed on shipyard contract

24 Feb 00 | Scotland
Yards state ferry case

18 Jan 00 | Scotland
Unions seek shipyard support

Internet links:

Ministry of Defence

BAE Systems

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Links to other Scotland stories are at the foot of the page.


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