Written question asked by Lord Foulkes of Cumnock (Labour) on Monday, 19 April 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 22 April 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Thursday, 22 April 2004 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make a statement on the supply of steel in the UK for manufacturing industries.

Answer: Mr. Foulkes: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the supply of steel in the UK for manufacturing industries. [167188] Jacqui Smith: Global steel prices have risen sharply in recent months as a result of rising input costs and market demand. This is causing difficulties for certain steel using industries where they have limited scope for passing on the increased cost to customers. There have been reports of tightness in the steel supply market, with imports to the EU reduced, but I understand that all types of steel remain available, although prices are high. There is no shortage of supply from UK steel producers.

Secondary information