§ 14. Mr. Parkasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received from Sterling Metals of Nuneaton and its existing customers about the consequences of the closure of its iron foundry on imports of components currently supplied by Sterling Metals.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonMy hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Industry has been notified about the impending closure of the Sterling Metals iron foundry. No representations have been received either from the company or its customers about consequential effects upon the import of components, although I have had a letter from the hon. Gentleman on that matter.
§ Mr. ParkIs the Minister aware that the major reason for the closure is unfair competition from Spain and Brazil? If so, what action has he taken?
§ Mr. MorrisonI do not entirely accept the hon. Gentleman's premise. I have heard such allegations and my Department, through the Commission, would take up that point if it could be substantiated.
§ Mr. Lewis StevensWill my hon. Friend instigate an investigation into the allegations, especially as they are not only of recent date? Would it not be worth pursuing the matter at a departmental level? The possible threat is not only to this company, but to other British foundries.
§ Mr. MorrisonI am quite happy to do what my hon. Friend has suggested, and will investigate the matter again. He will appreciate that now that Spain has joined the European Community, the position has changed radically.