HC Deb 16 June 1982 vol 25 cc278-9W
Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what consultation has taken place between his Department and the trade unions concerned in current talks on joint ventures involving public and private steel firms.

Mr. Butcher

None. Consultation with trade unions about any proposals for joint ventures is a matter for the companies concerned.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Industry at what stage before the public announcement of a conclusion to current discussions on joint ventures between public and private steel firms he expects the management and unions concerned to be notified.

Mr. Butcher

This a matter for the companies concerned.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Industry which private steel firms are engaged with his Department in talks on joint ventures with the British Steel Corporation.

Mr. Butcher

The identity of the companies involved is a matter of commercial confidentiality.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Industry which production areas his Department has examined in current discussions on joint ventures between public and private steel firms.

Mr. Butcher

Recent studies carried out for public and private steel companies have considered rationalisation of various sectors including engineering steels, bright bar, cold rolled strip and heavy forgings.