HC Deb 14 March 1977 vol 928 cc68-9W
Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether a conclusion has been reached on the application for anti-dumping action against steel reinforcing bars from Spain.

Mr. Dell

An application for antidumping action against steel reinforcing bars from Spain was made in September 1975. A full investigation was begun but this was halted in February 1976, when a satisfactory undertaking about pricing policies was obtained from the Spanish producers.

Since that time there has been a considerable increase in world steel prices and my Department decided that a new undertaking should be sought. As a result of prolonged negotiation the Department and the Spanish Government have agreed new minimum price levels on shipments to the United Kingdom. The new prices will be strictly controlled by the Spanish authorities.

The United Kingdom industry has been consulted about the agreement and has said that it is satisfied with the new price levels.