HC Deb 20 April 1937 vol 322 cc1576-7
39. Mr. Hardie

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that there are blast furnaces at Wishaw, Glengarnock, and Coatbridge, numbering 12 in all, which are capable of being reconditioned for the production of pig-iron at an early date; and will he, in view of the shortage of iron and steel in Scotland, consider the advisability of taking action to compel the Iron and Steel Trades Federation to remove the restrictions on output so that the furnaces mentioned can resume operations?

Dr. Burgin

I am informed that the British Iron and Steel Federation have placed no restrictions on the production of iron and steel. The industry are at present investigating the possibility of bringing further blast furnaces into operation in Scotland.

Mr. Hardie

Is it not a restriction not to have the furnaces in a condition for production when they are required?

Dr. Burgin

A number of the furnaces require a great deal of modernisation. It is a question whether it is better to bring those into operation, or to build new ones.

Mr. Hardie

Is it not the function of the federation, which has all these privileges about trade, to see that the machinery is ready to operate when it is required?

Dr. Burgin

No, Sir.

Mr. Hardie

It is.

40. Mr. Hardie

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the restriction on the output of iron and steel in Scotland has thrown a large number of workers out of employment because of the lack of materials; and, as production and prices and profits are regulated by the Iron and Steel Trades Federation, what action does he intend to take to prevent this employers' monopoly making excessive profits at the expense of the general industry of Scotland?

Dr. Burgin

I am informed that production in Scotland of pig iron and steel ingots and castings increased considerably in March, and that every effort is being made to increase production still further. As the hon. Member is aware prices of the main iron and steel products are determined by the British Iron and Steel Federation in consultation with the Import Duties Advisory Committee.

Mr. Hardie

Does what the Minister has just said refer to any purchases made by those called steel and iron merchants, and, if so, is there any control over prices in this department?

Dr. Burgin

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question on the Paper.