HC Deb 07 August 1940 vol 364 cc202-3
47. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Supply whether he will take steps to use his requisitioning powers to obtain all metals, including steel girders and frames that are left with a building unfinished, in order that the metal and steel can be used in the war effort?

The Minister of Supply (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

Although I would not hesitate, if necessary, to use my powers to requisition the metal structure of unfinished buildings, I am not satisfied that the necessity to do so has yet arisen.

Mr. Bevan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that over very large reaches of this country which cannot be mentioned, information shows that Anderson shelters cannot be obtained because of the shortage of steel? Is he further aware that there is no other shelter or material available, and will he not, therefore, see that all available steel is obtained?

Mr. Morrison

It does not necessarily follow that if these buildings were taken down steel would be available for that purpose, and I do not make the decision in that respect. But, to take down buildings in partial erection which may yet be wanted for war purposes seems to me to be an utterly uneconomic procedure.

Mr. Bevan

Is it an uneconomic procedure at this moment to give people uniform protection?

Mr. Hicks

Is the Minister aware that there are other types of shelter than the Anderson shelters which could be equally well employed?

Mr. Morrison

The last two questions seem to be questions for the Minister of Home Security rather than for the Minister of Supply.