Steel

HC Deb 08 April 1975 vol 889 cc403-4W

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what amendment would be required to the European Coal and Steel Treaty to give member Governments of the EEC control over investment in their own steel industries.

Mr. Meacher:

As the Prime Minister said in his statement to the House on 18th March—[Vol. 888, c. 1456-1467.]—we are going to study the methods other member countries use to control investment in their steel industries before we decide whether to ask for amendment of the ECSC Treaty.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will initiate discussions with appropriate Ministers of the EEC countries concerning the problem of the proliferation of mini steel mills.

Mr. Meacher:

As the Prime Minister told the House on 18th March, we are going to study the methods other member countries use to deal with the question of private investment in steel. This will entail, inter alia, discussion with the Community on the problem of mini steel mills.