asked the Secretary of State for Industry if his Department has had consultations with the British valve manufacturing industry; and what further consultations are to be held with a view to ensuring that both home needs are met and increasing exports achieved.

My Department is in touch with the British valve manufacturing industry and with its trade association. Discussions have been held with firms in the valve sector to discuss with them their future prospects. We shall continue discussions where these are necessary.

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he is satisfied that the British valve manufacturing industry has been able to meet home demand and achieve satisfactory exports in recent years.

The annual turnover of the British valve industry is some £130 million, of which exports are nearly £50 million. Imports have risen to an annual rate of about £22 million in 1974.