ROG, the problem was they Court Line could have solved the financial problem but was thwarted by the Government. Court Line held some fairly considerable shipping interests including Appledore shipyards, Doxford engines, and Woolsingham Steel amonst them.
These were offered to the Government, who had shown interest. Of course the need for the sale was urgent but of course the government needed to show due diligence !!! They would not even a agree an interim payment. Of Course all this went on to the 11th hour and 59 minutes !!!