§ Mr. Hardyto ask the President of the Board of Trade what action he is taking to ensure that the British steel industry does not face unfair competition within the European Union; and what steps are being taken in regard to subsidies of production by(a) national and (b) regional governments in Belgium. [40074]
§ Mr. Greg KnightThe Government have made their opposition to illegal subsidies to EU steel producers very clear to both the Commission and other member states. The UK Steel Subsidies Monitoring Committee has also played a part in maintaining the pressure to end these subsidies. Following a complaint from the UK and others, the Commission recently opened an investigation into the state aid element of the Forges de Clabecq rescue package. If a British company is able to provide evidence of illegal subsidies to other steel producers, we will pursue the matter vigorously with the Commission.