§ 42. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Supply what was the price per ton of tin in 1936, 1940, in January and February, 1941, respectively; have steps been taken to safeguard the supplies required, and at what price?
§ The Minister of Supply (Sir Andrew Duncan)The mean average price per ton of cash standard tin on the London Metal Exchange was £204 12s. 8d. in 1936, £256 12s. 3d. in 1940, £256 15s. 10d. in January, 1941, and £265 3s. l1d. in February, 1941. As regards the last part of the Question, the hon. Member can rest assured that the necessary steps have been taken to safeguard the supply position in this country. Purchases on Government account have been made from time to time at varying prices, but it would not be in the national interest to publish the quantity or the cost.
§ Mr. SmithShould not the speculation and gambling which have been taking place in the supply of tin be stopped, and has not the time arrived when the Minister should take steps to control supplies?