HC Deb 08 July 1937 vol 326 cc564-5
68. Mr. Mander

asked the President of the Board of Trade the allocation made by the Steel Federation to steel re-rollers, with a view to satisfying consumers that the supply of steel available is being equitably distributed?

Mr. Stanley

I am informed that the allocation of steel to re-rollers is based on the quantities used by each re-roller in the year 1934, with provision for special consideration of exceptional cases. The arrangements have been agreed between the steelmakers and the National Association for Rolled and Re-Rolled Steel Products, of which nearly all re-rolling firms are members.

Mr. Mander

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that certain firms who started business, at the wish of the Government, since 1934, are very far from satisfied that they are being fairly treated; and will he be good enough to look into any case that I may bring to his attention?

Mr. Stanley

Yes, Sir; I have told hon. Members that I shall be only too glad if they will bring any case to my notice.

69. Mr. Mander

asked the President of the Board of Trade the latest information with regard to the position of the Iron and Steel Federation, Limited; and whether its balance sheet can be made available for the information of those engaged in the industry?

Mr. Stanley

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the British Iron and Steel Federation. I am informed that the balance sheet of the federation is available to all its members.

Miss Wilkinson

In view of the public importance of the operations of the Federation, cannot the Minister secure that the balance sheet should be open to public inspection?

Mr. Stanley

The usual thing is to make the balance sheet available to the members of the Association.

Miss Wilkinson

Ought it not to be available to those who in the public interest desire to see what the Federation is doing?

Mr. Stanley

I will look into the point, but the hon. Lady will agree that when it is available to so many people, as it is in this case, one might say it is available to everyone.

Mr. Mander

In view of the fact that there is a Government director on the Board, could it not be made available to the public?