§ 25. Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he has had any recent discussions with the chairman of the British Steel Corporation concerning investment plans for the industry.
§ Mr. Norman LamontThe investment plans for BSC. will be discussed as part of its new plan for 1982–85, which is currently being reassessed by the corporation in the light of a number of recent adverse factors, including antidumping action by United States manufacturers.
§ 30. Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will make a further statement on the future of the steel industry.
§ Mr. Norman LamontI shall be making a speech about the current situation and prospects during the debate on steel which is to take place later today, and I expect my right hon. Friend will make a further statement when the current reassessment of the BSC corporate plan has been completed and the plan has been considered by the Government.
§ 34. Mr. John H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for Industry what action he has taken to promote consideration of the scheme, under section 8 of the Industry Act 1972, announced by him on 14 December, for the private sector of the steel industry; and what response he has had so far.
§ Mr. WakehamDetails of the private sector steel scheme have been sent to potentially eligible companies. To date, we have received one firm application for assistance and have had preliminary discussions with several other companies.