HC Deb 06 December 1971 vol 827 cc933-5
34. Mr. Edward Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proposals for the expansion and development of the Scottish steel industry are contained in the long-term investment plans submitted to him by the British Steel Corporation.

Mr. John Davies

The content of the investment programme is a matter between the British Steel Corporation and myself, but my current review of the corporation's plans and prospects will take account of regional considerations.

Mr. Taylor

Is my right hon. Friend aware that mention was made in the annual report of the British Steel Corporation of a plan for a green-field site as part of the programme? Is he aware that it would be a tremendous boost to morale in the whole of the West of Scotland if approval were given to such a major new development in this area; and when can we expect his decision in the matter?

Mr. Davies

I appreciate that, and I have told the House that I am hoping to have the report of the Joint Steering Group in my hands before the end of the year. I shall obviously wish to process it very quickly when I get it.

Mr. James Hamilton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that steel production goes on in my constituency? Will he ask the British Steel Corporation to deal expeditiously with its investment policy and pass its proposals to him for his approval or otherwise? Is he aware of the great fear and perturbation in the West of Scotland lest the Government will rat on the decision that has already in essence been taken by the corporation? Finally, may we be assured that the Scottish steel industry, which is vital to the economy, will not be left by the wayside when the decisions are made?

Mr. Davies

I can give the hon. Gentleman the very fullest assurance that there is certainly no discrimination against Scotland in mind. He will be aware that the British Steel Corporation is very much a party to the inquiry that is now taking place.

Mr. John Mendelson

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the grave concern that exists in other parts of the country in which the steel industry is located, including South Yorkshire, where there have been redundancies at Samuel Fox and other firms? Will he find an opportunity before the Christmas Recess on 22nd December to make an interim statement on the expansion prospects of the industry in view of the reassurance that the people who work in the industry now badly need?

Mr. Davies

It would seem that I can only usefully make a statement at the point in time when I have something useful to communicate, and I am unlikely to be in that position before Christmas.