HC Deb 29 November 1977 vol 940 cc160-1W
Mr. Newens

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will make a statement on the current state of discussions with Hitachi on the proposals advanced by this enterprise to establish a manufacturing unit in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Cryer

My Department has had lengthy discussions with Hitachi about the terms and conditions on which the company might establish a manufacturing unit at Washington new town. Ministers are now consulting with the industry and trade unions and the company is presenting its own case to those who have expressed concern about the proposal. It would not be appropriate for me to go further while these consultations are in progress.