§ Lord Jonesasked Her Majesty's Government:
What new measures they have adopted to assist the steel industry in Britain to face up to competition within and without the country. [HL4739]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Lord Sainsbury of Turville)The Department of Trade and Industry in particular has worked closely with the UK steel industry for many years to improve its competitiveness and to encourage best practice.
The DTI has provided financial support for a number of initiatives to bring about improvements in skills, training, business planning, lean manufacturing, exports and e-commerce. Earlier this year, my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry announced funding of £2.7 million (£1.5 million from DTI and £1.2 million from Yorkshire Forward) for a new national metals technology centre. The centre will play an important role in ensuring the industry remains competitive and a world leader in innovation.
§ Lord Jonesasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their estimate of the annual value of United Kingdom exports of steel products for the years 1999–2001. [HL4742]
§ Lord Sainsbury of TurvilleThe value of UK exports of primary steel products were as follows:
- 1999—£2,145 million
- 2000—£2,395 million
- 2001—£2,417 million.
Source: Iron & Steel Statistics Bureau.