§ Mr. John Grantasked the Secretary of State for Industry what consultations he had with the European Community Commission prior to the publication of its latest report on the steel industry's job losses in Community countries over the next three years, particularly over calculations in respect of the United Kingdom; what input his Department made to the Commission's estimates; and whether he agrees with its conclusions.
§ Mr. ButcherI assume that the hon. Member is referring to figures contained in a Commission document of 27 January entitled "Social Support Scheme for Restructuring the Steel Areas of the Community." This document examines possible extension and development of social policies to assist adaptation of steel workers, and includes an estimate that there will be 150,000 job losses in Community steel industries over the next three years. No attempt is made to apportion this figure between member states. The estimate is described as a working hypothesis, and was produced entirely on the Commission's own responsibility. My right hon. Friend is not in a position to take a view on this estimate at this stage.