British Steel
Debate between Lord Wigley and Earl of Minto(5 months, 4 weeks ago)
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The Earl of Minto (Con)
That was a very detailed question indeed, with which I entirely agree.
Lord Wigley (PC)
My Lords, the Minister will be aware of the concern among the workforce, particularly in south Wales, about the way in which this has rolled out. Does he agree that there is a need to ensure that the workforce are in the picture, at every stage? If, at present, we cannot afford to manufacture our own steel, which is so vital for defence and to many other industries, what happens when we cannot afford to import it?
The Earl of Minto (Con)
To answer the first part of the noble Lord’s question, we will keep key people fully informed, subject to commercial sensitivities, as I am sure everyone in the House understands. As far as the cost of steel is concerned, we trade in an open market and generate funds within this country, and I am sure that we will never lack availability of steel from somewhere in the world.