74. Mr. V. Adamsasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the serious difficulties encountered by the steel users in this country in procuring an adequate supply of steel and 605 so maintaining their normal level of activity and employment; and whether, to further our own industries, he will discourage excessive exports of steel during the present shortage?
§ Dr. BurginIt is, of course, of great importance to maintain our export connections, and I do not think there is a danger of our exports becoming excessive.
Mr. AdamsIs not the Parliamentary Secretary aware that in certain areas in the North of England there is so little steel available that a number of men are threatened immediately with unemployment?
§ Dr. BurginI am aware of the world shortage of steel, and I am aware that entrance to the export markets is one of the great advantages which this country acquires from the Cartel. I have the figures for exports, and my answer stands, that there is no danger of our exports becoming excessive.