HC Deb 08 May 1940 vol 360 cc1223-4
47. Mr. A. Bevan

asked the Minister of Supply why the steel plant at Ebbw Vale is working short time at the present time when the greatest possible production is needed?

The Minister of Supply (Mr. Burgin)

I am advised that, subject to normal fluctuations arising from internal causes, the blast furnace and steel furnaces at Ebbw Vale are working at full capacity. The rolling mills are fully employed within the limits of the supplies of steel which can be made available.

Mr. Bevan

Is the Minister fully satisfied that the short time being worked by the rolling mills has no connection with the unfortunate management of the company?

Mr. Burgin

Yes, Sir; I am absolutely satisfied on that.

Mr. Bevan

In view of the fact that allegations have been made recently about the management of this firm, would the Minister ask the committee on waste and expenditure to call for inquiries to be made?

Mr. Burgin

That must be a matter for the committee.

49. Mr. Bevan

asked the Minister of Supply whether, in view of the need to promote the utmost productive effort of the steel industry during the present crisis, he will take steps to substitute the control of the Government for the control now exercised over the industry by the banks?

Mr. Burgin

I do not accept the implications of the hon. Member's Question. The control now exercised by my Department over the iron and steel industry is, in my view, sufficient to ensure that the fullest possible use is made of the productive capacity of the industry.

Mr. Bevan

Is the Minister responsible for the fact that the management of Richard Thomas and Company is being shared at present by a person who is also managing director of a rival concern? Is that a good way of promoting economic efficiency in the steel trade?

Mr. Burgin

I am not responsible for the management of Richard Thomas's undertaking. I am responsible, through the Iron and Steel Control, for seeing that the productive capacity of those works is used to the best possible advantage.

Mr. Bevan

Is it not a fact that the managing director of Richard Thomas and Company is appointed by the Governor of the Bank of England, and that he is not a person who ought to be in charge of several concerns at the same time, especially as one of them has the largest and most up-to-date plant in the country?

Mr. Burgin

I am not interested in the management of this firm. What I am interested in is that there shall be efficient output from its works. I am quite satisfied that the Iron and Steel Control, which is one of the controls of the Ministry of Supply, is attaining the most effective output from these works.

Mr. Bevan

In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter at the earliest opportunity.