HC Deb 23 July 1979 vol 971 cc12-3
11. Mr. Dudley Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he plans to meet the chairman of British Leyland before Parliament goes into its Summer Adjournment.

Mr. Adam Butler

My right hon. Friend meets the chairman of British Leyland as often as circumstances require.

Mr. Smith

When my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State next meets the chairman of British Leyland, will he call his attention to the complaints of some West Midlands firms alleging that they are excluded from providing electrical equipment which is being obtained from Italy at a dearer rate? Will he stress to British Leyland that, in view of the large amount of finance put behind this company, it should buy British on every occasion unless there are good reasons for doing otherwise?

Mr. Butler

I shall take note of that point. I am certain that British Leyland will also take note of my hon. Friend's general point, with which I agree, although the company must buy in the best market available.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

When the Minister next meets the chairman of British Leyland, will he ask him—I do not always believe what I read in the press—whether it is true that a certain prominent politician has been given a brand new car to enable him to drive a British car rather than a Datsun? This is not the sort of action that 600 Members of Parliament should encourage.

Mr. Butler

I am not aware of this report, but I am sure that this is a case of "If the cap fits, wear it".