HC Deb 04 February 1986 vol 91 c124W
Mr. Lewis Stevens

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what information he has as to subsidies to the foundry industries of Spain, other European Economic Community countries and Brazil; and what effect he assesses such subsidies to have on the United Kingdom foundry industry both at home and abroad;

(2) what assessment he has made of the compatibility of the direct and indirect subsidies to the foundry industries in Spain and other countries with existing trade agreements;

(3) what action Her Majesty's Government take to seek to ensure that United Kingdom foundries do not face unfair competition from overseas; and if any further action is proposed.

Mr. Alan Clark

My Department is at present reviewing complaints by the United Kingdom foundry industries, which allege unfair competition from subsidised imports. In the light of the evidence presented, my Department will consider taking up the complaints with the Commission of the European Communities, which is responsible for taking action in respect of such imports whether they come from other member states of the Community or from third countries.