HC Deb 26 July 1971 vol 822 cc25-6
33. Dr. Gilbert

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the stamping works which the British Steel Corporation intends to sell off to private interests.

Sir J. Eden

The implementation of the conclusions my right hon. Friend announced on 28th June is for the Corporation. I am asking the Chairman to write to the hon. Member.

Dr. Gilbert

Can the hon. Gentleman say why it is that I have had no reply to a letter which I sent him nearly three weeks ago asking for assurances about employment prospects and the guarantee of pension arrangements of people working at Cookley? Secondly, will the hon. Gentleman investigate the serious report from a senior official at the Cookley works that there have been approaches from private interests about the availability of the works—before any announcement from the British Steel Corporation?

Sir J. Eden

I have no knowledge on the latter point. I apologise for the delay in answering the hon. Member's letter. I will look into it at once.