HC Deb 05 December 1983 vol 50 cc2-3W
Mr. Deakins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if there are any sectors of British manufacturing industry where Her Majesty's Government seek to ensure maintenance of some productive capacity for strategic reasons or otherwise in the national interest.

Mr. Butcher

A small number of industrial capabilities are regarded as essential for military reasons. In general, however, the Government do not seek to maintain in being particular areas of manufacturing capacity, but to provide a framework within which industry itself can respond effectively to changing circumstances.