HC Deb 17 March 1943 vol 387 cc1188-9
67. Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

asked the Minister of Supply how many tons of iron have been collected from the removal of gates and railings in the country; and what percentage of this amount has been brought into actual use for munition manufacture?

Sir A. Duncan

Approximately 450,000 tons of railings have been collected up to date. Of this, 85,000 tons are in reserve dumps, and the remainder has either already been sent to iron and steel works or is being sorted and cut up preparatory to going there. The entire output of iron and steel is used to meet essential war-time requirements.

Sir A. Knox

Does the Minister consider that in view of the annoyance caused throughout country districts this action has really been worth while for the war effort?

Sir A. Duncan

I should not have thought there was the slightest doubt about that in anybody's mind.