HC Deb 22 June 1981 vol 7 cc28-9W
27. Mr. Chapman

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will make a statement about the recent discussions with European Economic Community Ministers on subsidies for steel manufacturers.

36. Mr. Richard Shepherd

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what progress has been made in EEC discussions on measures to assist the steel industry.

38. Mr. Allan Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will make a statement on his discussions in Europe on the problems of the steel industry.

Mr. Tebbit

The Council on 4 June had a preliminary exchange of views on the timetable for ending State aids to the steel industry that are contrary to the Treaty of Paris and is to consider this further at its meeting on 24 June. The Government strongly support a decision that will require such aids to be phased out and accompanied by capacity reduction.

31. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what progress is being made with the reorganisation of the British Steel Corporation and the private steel-making companies in the scheme known as Phoenix II.

Mr. Michael Marshall

Confidential discussions between the parties are still going on, and I cannot comment on them at present.

39. Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Industry when he next expects to meet other EEC Ministers responsible for their national steel industries to discuss joint policies.

Mr. Tebbit

I shall be attending the Council when it meets on 24 June to discuss steel issues.