HC Deb 27 November 1995 vol 267 cc433-4W
Mr. Hardy

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what action he will take with regard to the approval of the European Commission of state aid(a) before and (b) after the purchase of Irish Steel Ltd. by a foreign company. [2382]

Mr. Eggar

The European Commission's proposal to allow exceptional state aid for Irish Steel is subject to the unanimous approval of EU member states. The United Kingdom will not give its assent unless conditions are attached that will mitigate the adverse effects of the aid on the UK steel industry. The UK will ensure that the aid, if approved, is strictly monitored to ensure compliance with the agreed conditions.