§ Mr. Hardyasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will ensure that there is parity of consideration and support for redundant steelworkers whether these are supported under the arrangements covered by the treaty of Rome or the treaty of Paris.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonNo. The Government operate a statutory scheme, partly funded by the European Community, for redundant workers who come under the special provisions of the treaty of Pars. The coverage and terms of this scheme have been agreed with the European Commission and are prescribed in regulations.
The British Steel Corporation operates a broadly similar scheme for its redundant workers who do not qualify for benefits under the statutory scheme. The terms of this scheme are a matter for the corporation.
As a rule, private sector steel companies do not operate any schemes for redundant workers who do not qualify for the statutory scheme.