HC Deb 23 February 1970 vol 796 cc223-4W
80. Mr. Ted Fletcher

asked the Minister of Technology if he is aware that United Kingdom-based foreign companies engaged in the erection of heavy plant for the oil, chemical and plastic industries are stipulating that major contracts must be placed on the Continent in view of the lower interest rates available; and, since this is not in accordance with General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, whether he will withhold investment grants from such firms unless British firms are offered identical conditions for tendering.

Mr. Benn

Inquiries made by my Department following earlier representations about discrimination against British suppliers of process plant produced no evidence that any projects are at present going ahead on this basis.

If my hon. Friend has any evidence to the contrary I would be glad to know of it.