§ Mr. Fallonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the outcome of the meeting of the European Economic Community Council of Industry Ministers on 9 July.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe Industry Council I chaired on 9 July concluded that the agreement on exports of semi-finished steel negotiated by the Commission with the USA was the best available in the circumstances. Subject to the final views of one member state, the Council agreed on the division between member states of the allowed levels of exports to the USA. BSC's exports of semi finished steel to Tuscaloosa Steel are unaffected.
I advised the Chairman of the Scrutiny Committee of the likely timetable beforehand. The Scrutiny Committee at its meeting on 9 July recommeded the Commission's proposals for debate, but indicated that it did not wish adoption to be delayed on this account. The debate will take place at the earliest opportunity.