45. Captain A.EVANSasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that any financial crisis in the iron and steel industry must have the effect of damaging the credit of British industry generally, and involving a complete set-back to any tendency to a revival extending over a much wider area than that of the industry itself, and that the price index for iron and steel products is now 19.6 649 per cent. compared with that for all commodities of 54 per cent. above 1913, and many staple products of iron and steel have already been reduced to 1913 levels; and, in view of these facts, if he will take steps to protect this industry in accordance with declared policy?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Burton Chadwick)I have been asked to reply. I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer given to the hon. Member for Flint by the Prime Minister on 7th December, when he said he hoped to make a statement; in regard to this industry before the House rises, but could not at present indicate a date.