§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what has been the total percentage increase of average steel prices since the beginning of the freeze; and how many price increases are contemplated during phase 2 or shortly thereafter.
§ Mr. Tom BoardmanThe DTI price index for home-produced steel was 8 per cent higher in May 1973—the latest month for which figures are available—than in November 1972, reflecting the436W full effect of the price increases from 30th April for Treaty of Paris products and part of the effect of other price changes during May. Further changes in steel prices are a matter for the producers, subject where it applies to the Counter-Inflation (Price and Pay Code) Order 1973; but in announcing the end-April increase the British Steel Corporation, as my hon. Friend will know, said that a further but smaller increase would be needed after the end of stage 2.
§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when it is anticipated that United Kingdom steel prices will reach parity with those ruling in the Common Market.
§ Mr. Tom BoardmanThis is a matter for the producers. The prices of steel products not covered by the Treaty of Paris are subject to the provisions of the Counter-Inflation (Price and Pay Code) Order 1973.