§ 48 and 49. Sir G. Nabarroasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) whether he will make a statement on his recent discussions with the British Steel Corporation and representative 7W steel users' bodies, respectively, concerning prices for steel in the United Kingdom during the period 1972–73;
(2) whether he will now make a statement concerning his conversations with the European Coal and Steel Community concerning future prices, 1972–73, for British steel.
§ 53. Mr. William Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he intends to take to stabilise steel prices.
§ Mr. Tom BoardmanThe price increases which came into effect on 2nd April, 1972, were discussed with the Iron and Steel Consumers' Council and with the British Steel Corporation in the context of the CBI's policy of price restraint. No decisions have yet been reached about the general policy to follow the present period of price restraint; but for the corporation the aim is to move into profitability and some increases will be necessary. This is regardless of our entry into Europe, though from 1st January, 1973, steel prices will be subject to the provisions of the Treaty of Paris. My right hon. Friend has not discussed future price increases of British steel with the Community.