§ 47. Mr. DIXEYasked the Prime Minister whether the position of the iron and steel trade is still causing anxiety to the Government; and, if so, in view of the Cabinet Committee's Report, what action, if any, other than safeguarding, does he propose to take with regard to this matter?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am glad to observe some signs of improvement recently, which I am hopeful will develop in this important group of industries, but I appreciate that the position is still an anxious one. I think the best assistance that the Government can render is by encouraging the placing of orders. The House will be invited to pass a Bill for guaranteeing East African loans which will, I hope, be of assistance with the placing of orders; and the same is true of the Electricity Bill which we intend to introduce.
§ Sir WILFRID SUGDENWill the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to tell us why funds are being used under the Trade Facilities Act to give improper competition in an over-supplied market in regard to the steel trade in Durham?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI should require notice of that question.