HC Deb 26 June 1972 vol 839 cc222-3W
41. Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had with the European Commission and member Governments of the European Community regarding the operation of official restraints on the pricing policy of the British Steel Corporation.

Mr. Tom Boardman

As explained in paragraph 157 of the White Paper on the United Kingdom and the European Communities—Cmnd. 4715—it was accepted in the course of the negotiations that my right hon. Friend's powers to give a direction on prices arising out of a recommendation of the Iron and Steel Consumers' Council would need to be repealed.

42. Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects the pricing policy of the British Steel Corporation to be brought into line with that of the European Economic Communities for similar products.

Mr. Tom Boardman

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Bebington (Mr. Cockeram) on 4th May.

I now understand the corporation intends to put the basing point system into effect on 1st January, 1973.—[Vol. 836, c, 205–6.]