§ Sir J. Edenasked the Minister of Technology (1) what is the total capital expenditure of the British Steel Corporation on its programme of rationalisation for this year; and what is the estimated expenditure each year for the next five years;
(2) what is the total capital expenditure devoted to the construction of new 229W plant by the British Steel Corporation this year; and what are the estimates each year for the next five years.
Mr. Alan WilliamsI have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member by my right hon. Friend the Paymaster-General on 23rd February on total capital expenditure by the Corporation. The distinction between rationalisation and construction of new plant is an unreal one.—[Vol. 796, c. 214.]
§ Sir J. Edenasked the Minister of Technology what is the British Steel Corporation's target for increase in productivity each year for the next five years.
Mr. Alan WilliamsThey plan to produce at least 25 per cent. more in the mid-1970s than in 1969 with about 25 per cent. fewer men. Detailed targets are a matter for the Corporation.