§ 21. Mr. SORENSENasked the Lord Privy Seal whether he has considered the advisability of some assistance being given to enable British steel manufacturers to instal the necessary plant to produce the type of steel required for high buildings to be erected in our Colonies and elsewhere?
Mr. THOMASI assume that my hon. Friend refers mainly to the "broad flanged beam" which is a special feature of the buildings in question, and which is not produced in this country. I am advised that there is not yet a sufficient 225 market to warrant the laying down of a special mill for the production of this type of section.
§ Mr. SORENSENDoes not the right hon. Gentleman agree that, if financial facilities were available to assist the production of this kind of steel in this country, markets might be found abroad, and that this would assist employment in this country?
Mr. THOMASIt is no good providing financial facilities if there is no demand for the goods. Financial assistance is useful where it can be proved that it will facilitate business, but so far as this particular article is concerned, there is no evidence that would warrant a special mill being set up.
§ Mr. SORENSENDoes the Lord Privy Seal consider that we are incapable of competing with manufacturers in the United States in the production of this kind of article?
§ Mr. ALBERYCan the right hon. Gentleman now say when the White Paper which he has promised us on no lees than four or five occasions will be produced?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat question does not arise out of the answer.
§ Mr. ALBERYwish most respect-fully to point out that the Lord Privy Seal's answer mentioned financial considerations, and on several occasions he has promised a White Paper with regard to them.