HC Deb 12 June 1940 vol 361 cc1264-6
42. Sir W. Davison

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is satisfied at the steps which are being taken in different London boroughs to collect the considerable quantity of scrap-iron, etc., which is available at many private houses; and what further action is being taken to enable scrap metal to be collected from private individuals?

Mr. H. Morrison

There is considerable variation in the activity of the different London boroughs in this matter. In some cases there is room for improvement, and I am considering what further steps should be taken to improve the arrangements for the collection of domestic scrap metal in the London area.

Sir Percy Harris

Can the right hon. Gentleman make arrangements for co-ordinating all efforts in regard to a comparatively simple problem like this so that all the boroughs can work on the same lines?

Mr. Morrison

That is certainly an aspect of the matter that I shall take into account.

Sir W. Davison

Could not an arrangement be made for the sending of a postcard to each borough engineer indicating roughly the amount of scrap metal which any particular household has so that it might be called for.

Mr. Morrison

I will see that the suggestion is given consideration.

Mr. Mathers

Are not much greater and more valuable supplies available, in the form of disused rails in all railway and colliery sidings than anything to be found in domestic service?

Mr. Morrison

I am obliged to the hon. Gentleman for his suggestion, which I will see is considered.

43. Mr. Cocks

asked the Minister of Supply what progress has he made in his plan for collecting the miles of iron railings in London and elsewhere for conversion into scrap-metal for war purposes?

Mr. Morrison

As I informed my hon. Friend on 29th May, the movement to release railings for scrap is gathering momentum. Substantial progress has been made and a large quantity of material has already been released. In London I am receiving the active cooperation of my Noble Friend the First Commissioner of Works and of the London County Council.

Mr. Cocks

Seeing that in his answer last time the Minister said he was not satisfied but would take other steps, is he still satisfied with the progress or does he intend to take other steps?

Mr. Morrison

Though I am not sure, I think that the other steps that I had in mind, were in relation to the answer given to the hon. and learned Member for East Leicester (Mr. Lyons) already, but the matter certainly will be considered.