§ Mr. Llew SmithTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what proportion of the European market for environmental protection technology is held by United Kingdom companies; and which EEC country has the biggest proportion of the market.
§ Mr. LeighUnited Kingdom companies are well represented among the top European environmental firms in major sectors such as water treatment, waste management and consultancy; and United Kingdom companies are selling environmental goods and services throughout west and east Europe.
Figures on environmental market shares would depend on assumptions on technologies included. The evidence available suggests that United Kingdom companies are relatively well placed but face competition especially from their German and French counterparts. The market in Europe, as elsewhere, certainly represents important opportunities for United Kingdom companies.