Mr President, I can well understand the Commission's regret that certain steelmakers have not met the required minimum cuts in capacity. I am equally well aware that the increase in demand for steel is helping the industry at the present time, that the UK is probably moving into a situation of profit, that the German industry is working flat out producing flat products. But this recovery is likely only to be temporary and if this is so then any drop in demand will immediately expose once again over capacity. The Commission cannot take its bat and ball home in a fit of pique. It has a duty and responsibility to address the still existing problem.

Mr President, I would like to say for the record that I understand the Commission is aware of and supports the embryo organization known as Steel Action. It is the intention of this organization, consisting of representatives from steel-producing areas of the Community, to develop into an authoritative voice for the promotion of the best interests of the industry, the workers in the industry and thereby the well-being of the Community. I would hope the Commission would re-examine its present position, that it will continue discussions with the industry over the state of the market and that it will consult and work closely with this Parliament and Steel Action.