53. Captain ARTHUR EVANSasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that previous to the General Election imports of iron and steel averaged 15,000 tons a week; that in the last three weeks over 89,000 tons were landed; and whether, in view of the distress prevailing in the iron and steel trades as well as the coalfields in South Wales, he will consider applying the emergency legislation which is contemplated to these basic industries pending the completion of inquiries into their claims for protection?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI have been asked to reply. During the month of October last imports of iron and steel and manufactures thereof amounted to 276,000 tons or approximately 65,000 tons per week. For the rest I would ask my hon. Friend to await the statement which my right hon. Friend intends to make in Debate this afternoon.