§ 43. Mr. MacVEAGHasked the Minister of Munitions whether he is aware that in consequence of the restrictions imposed on the commercial use of copper the price has been enhanced; whether he is aware that simultaneously with the increase in price certain merchants are holding up large stocks with a view to a further rise; whether manufacturers are thereby being driven out of their foreign trade; and whether the Department of Munitions and the Board of Trade will take steps to fix maximum prices or to commandeer stocks?
§ Sir W. EVANSMy information does not bear out the suggestions made in the first two parts of the question. Such copper as can be spared is being, and will continue to be, released so as to maintain the export trade of British manufacturers. By Order, dated 1st January, the Minister of Muntions requisitioned all copper not already allocated to manufacturers for munitions or essential trade purposes. The control over the disposal of stocks of copper is therefore complete.