§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he w dl make a statement regarding the refusal of the European Economic Community to approve the 606W Government's proposals for State aids to the British Steel Corporation; and if he will indicate the response of Her Majesty's Government to the European Economic Community decision.
§ Mr. TebbitThe Commission has not refused to approve the Government's proposals for finance for the BSC, but has indicated that it is prepared to agree to the Government's suggestion that further interim funds of up to £190 million should be authorised while further consideration takes place of the BSC' s future strategy and financial requirements.
The Commission has further indicated that a reduction of capacity below the 14.4 million tonnes liquid steel will not be a condition of clearance of the corporate plan covering the period 1981–82.