§ Mrs. Maureen HicksTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what assessment he has made of the implications for manufacturing companies in the west midlands of the effect of current European Community quotas on steel; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 16 November 1987]: My right hon. and learned Friend and I have received a number of representations from steel users, in the west midlands and elsewhere, concerning steel supply difficulties which arise to a large extent from the operation of the European quota system.
My Department has raised these difficulties with the European Commission, which has made some efforts within the Community-wide system to improve the position. None the less, I am aware that more needs to be done. In the forthcoming negotiations on the future European steel regime my right hon. and learned Friend will have as a prime consideration the needs of United Kingdom steel users for adequate supplies.