HC Deb 04 June 1984 vol 61 c16W
Mr. McCrindle

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he has discussed with his European counterparts measures to encourage European shipowners to place their orders within the Community; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Fletcher

The possibility of increasing the incentives for European shipowners to place orders in European shipyards is currently under consideration by the European Commission and member states of the Community.

Mr. McCrindle

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proposals have been made to protect Community shipbuilders and shipping companies from unfair competition from outside the Community.

Mr. Fletcher

Through its membership of the OECD and the GATT, the Community can already act against shipbuilding competition which breaches the international trade rules. The Council is currently discussing proposals to protect from unfair competition Community shipping companies operating on routes to and from the Community.