§ 53. Mr. St. John-Stevasasked the Minister of Technology whether he will make a further statement of Government policy on the future of the British ball bearing industry.
§ Mr. BennIn answer to a Question on 27th March, 1969, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster explained that the I.R.C.'s takeover of Brown Bayley was the first stage in a plan to strengthen the British ball bearing industry. The Corporation has since announced its support for an offer by Ransome & Marles Limited for the Pollard Ball and Roller Bearing Company Limited.
The Government agrees with the I.R.C. view that it is desirable to retain a strong British controlled element in securing the most effective rationalisation of the industry.