HC Deb 19 December 1927 vol 212 cc16-7
36. Mr. DIXEY

asked the President of the Board of Trade at what date the Committee of Civil Research came to their decision with regard to the iron and steel trades?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Burton Chadwick)

The conclusion reached by the Government as the result of the Committee's investigation was announced in this House by the Prime Minister on the 21st December, 1925.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Does not the hon. Gentleman realise that the circumstances have very much changed owing to the general strike and the coal dispute of last year?

Sir B. CHADWICK

If the hon. and gallant Gentleman suggests that any changes which have taken place have made things worse than they were since this decision was arrived at, I think he is wrong. I do not think things are worse.

37 Mr. W. THORNE

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) the total amount of production of steel ingots and castings for the month of October, 1926, and the month of September, 1927?

(2) the number of blast furnaces in operation throughout the country at the end of October, 1927, as compared with the number at the end of September, 1927; and the total amount of production of pig-iron for the two months mentioned compared with the amount for the corresponding months of 1926?

Sir B. CHADWICK

As the reply has been prepared in tabular form, the hon. Member will perhaps allow me to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether there is an increase or decrease?

Mr. THORNE

An increase.

Sir B. CHADWICK

The comparable figure Which is asked for applies to October, 1926, and September, 1927, but of course October, 1926, was quite an abnormal period in regard to steel ingots and pig-iron.

Following is the reply:

Production of Steel Ingots and Castings.
Tons.
October, 1926 … … … 94,200
September, 1927 … … … 777,000
Blast furnaces in operation.
Number.
At end of September, 1927 … 160
At end of October, 1927 … 162
Production of Pig Iron.
Tons.
September-October, 1926 … 25,600
September-October, 1927 … 1,187,800