HC Deb 20 May 1974 vol 874 cc14-5W
44. Mr. Tim Renton

asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he has given a general direction to the British Steel Corporation to ensure that steel nominally intended for export, is not diverted to the home market at prices in excess of the British Steel Corporation's price list.

Mr. Bean

No. The BSC is already well aware of the importance of keeping the home market supplied direct. If the hon. Member has evidence that the practice he refers to is currently taking place I shall be glad to examine it.

Mr. Grist

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what are his estimates of present and future supplies of scrap metal to the steel industry and the bearing such estimates have on his approach to his decision on the future of the East Moors works in Cardiff.

Mr. Benn

I know that the steel industry is concerned that future indigenous supplies of good quality steelmaking scrap may be inadequate to meet potential demand. This is one of the factors which will be taken into account in my review of the British Steel Corporation's proposed closures, which include East Moors.

Mr. Eddie Griffiths

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will make available to the House the reports of the task forces concerned with proposed closures in the British Steel Corporation in the next 10 years.

Mr. Benn

The question of the publication of the task force reports is under consideration.

Mr. Loyden

asked the Secretary of State for Industry when he will be making a statement on steel.

Mr. Benn

I shall let the House know soon how I propose to handle our review of steel closures; and at various stages thereafter.