§ 6. Mr. MURRAY MACDONALDasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the crisis due to the shortage of foundry pig-iron in Scotland still continues, and in an aggravated form; that, notwithstanding the steps now being taken, the quantity of English pig-iron available for Scotland has since been materially reduced, instead of being increased; that the Scottish iron founders are being forced to place contracts for American pig-iron at a cost almost 50 per cent. more than that of English pig-iron; and, if so, whether he can indicate what further steps will be taken to secure an increase in the output 988 of foundry pig-iron from the English blast furnaces?
§ Sir R. HORNEI am aware of the general conditions indicated in the question, which are causing me serious concern. I have met the iron founders and the ironmasters in conference, and am satisfied that the latter are doing all in their power, by restriction on export and by increased production, to meet domestic requirements, but they are encountering serious difficulties, which can only be overcome gradually.
§ Mr. G. TERRELLWill the right hon. Gentleman state what were the difficulties?
§ Sir R. HORNEThey arose out of a number of causes.