§ 14. Mr. Hal Millerasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he has had any indications as to plans for the Nissan project.
§ Mr. Norman LamontI recently met representatives of the company in Tokyo, but I am afraid that on the substance of our discussions I cannot add to my previous answer to my hon. Friend on 22 March.
§ Mr. MillerHas there been any evolution in the Government's thinking since the project was first announced in February last year, in the light of studies of possible effects on our components industry and the nature of the technological gain, if any, that Nissan is likely to bring to this country?
§ Mr. LamontNo, the Government's attitude has not changed. We have had discussions with Nissan and we have indicated to the company the terms on which it would be acceptable to the Government for it to come to this country. In the views that we conveyed to Nissan, we naturally took account of the effects on the components industry. As my hon. Friend knows, we attach considerable importance to a high local content.
§ Mr. Geoffrey RobinsonMore than a year ago we were promised a decision on the feasibility study. Does the Minister realise that the delay is causing widespread uncertainty in the market place? What is his best assessment of the likelihood of the project going ahead? If it does not go ahead—and there seems to be real doubt about this—will he enter into discussions with the chairman of BL to see that it comes forward with a new project to produce 200,000 extra cars in this country?
§ Mr. LamontI agree that it has taken a considerable time, but it is a very important project for Nissan and it is natural that it should wish to research it throughly, as considerable sums of money are involved. I am sure that BL will take account of developments in this project when making its own investment decisions.