§ 16. Mr. Banfieldasked the President of the Board of Trade whether every effort is being made to see that the re-rollers in the iron and steel industry are provided with a better supply of billets to the rolling mills; and whether he can make any statement to allay the present anxiety among both employers and workmen?
§ 21. Mr. Arthur Hendersonasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the shortage of billets in the rolling mills of the Midlands is causing unemployment; and whether he will take steps to secure an increase in the available supply?
Mr. StanleyI am aware that certain firms of re-rollers have experienced difficulties through the shortage of steel billets, and I can assure the hon. Members that every effort is being made to increase the supply. Assurances have recently been given regarding further supplies from the Continent which, it is expected, will materially improve the position.
§ Mr. HendersonCan the right hon. Gentleman say what the assurances are?
Mr. StanleyAssurances have been given by members of the Cartel, especially the French members, of an increased supply in the coming months.