§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Industry to what extent British industry is dependent upon castings imported from Europe; and if he will compare the position over the past decade.
§ Mr. Michael MarshallComparable figures are not available for all types of ferrous castings, but in 1980 imports of iron castings into the United Kingdom from Europe represented about 6 per cent. of domestic 331W production. Recorded tonnages increased from around 29,000 tonnes in 1972 to around 110,000 tonnes in 1980. Total direct exports from the United Kingdom, however, increased slightly from 120,000 tonnes in 1972 to 135 tonnes in 1980. Figures for non-ferrous castings are not available without investigation at disproportionate cost.