HC Deb 28 February 1972 vol 832 cc28-9
34. Mr. Simeons

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to safeguard the interests of the ball bearing industry from unfair Japanese competition.

Mr. Anthony Grant

A recent request by the industry for the Government to ask the Japanese Government to limit voluntarily the growth of bearings sales to this country is under urgent consideration. We await further information which industry has been asked to provide.

Mr. Simeons

In view of the impact that these Japanese imports are having on future employment prospects in the industry, will my hon. Friend urge upon the industry the necessity for a quick answer and then get weaving himself when he has got it?

Mr. Grant

I can give my hon. Friend an assurance on both those points. The sooner we get the additional information we have asked for, the sooner we can move quickly.

Mr. Bob Brown

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the serious danger to the employment prospects of many thousands of employees in the ball bearing and machine tool industry? Will he accept the urgency of making the strongest possible representations on this issue?

Mr. Grant

Certainly, and I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will request the industry to give us the information as soon as possible.