HC Deb 08 February 1934 vol 285 cc1301-2
68 and 69. Captain CRAWFORD BROWNE

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) the quantity of iron ore imported into this country in 1933 from the Dominions and Colonies for the purpose of manufacture into pig-iron;

(2) the quantity of iron ore imported into this country from abroad suitable for the manufacture of pig-iron in the year 1933; and how much iron ore of British or home production was used for the same purpose in that period?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Dr. Burgin)

The total imports of iron ore into the United Kingdom during 1933 amounted to 2,706,668 tons, of which 41,968 tons were consigned from British countries. I am unable to state how much British or home produced ore was used solely in the manufacture of pig-iron.

Mr. EVERARD

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there are a great many iron workers in England who are working on short time and who could easily produce far more iron ore so that the amount imported could be reduced?

Dr. BURGIN

I am aware of the facts, but the hon. Member's deduction does not necessarily follow.