HC Deb 25 May 1977 vol 932 cc507-8W
Mr. Sedgemore

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if, pursuant to his statement on 19th May, Official Report, column 695, he will include in his report his views on the industrial and economic damage caused to the United Kingdom and to British Leyland by the article on the company in the Daily Mail.

Mr. Les Huckfield

I cannot comment on matters which are or may come before the courts. Naturally, I deplore any action which causes damage to United Kingdom companies or the economy.

Mr. Sedgemore

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he intends to refer to the Press Council the recent references made to him by the Daily Mail in relation to British Leyland.

Mr. Les Huckfield

The Press Council announced on 23rd May that it is launching an immediate inquiry into the circumstances in which theDaily Mail came to publish allegations concerning the business conduct of British Leyland. In view of this my right hon. Friend does not consider it necessary for him to refer the matter to the Council.