HC Deb 04 February 1942 vol 377 cc1183-4
51. Mr. Simmonds

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply whether there are effective arrangements at present in force for the salvage and subsequent recovery of nonferrous metals; and, in view of the risk of copper and brass utensils being resold as such to members of the public after having been donated for the national war effort, whether instances of this have occurred and are steps taken to prevent it?

Mr. Harold Macmillan

Non-ferrous metal articles are collected from householders by local authorities and dealers, and disposed of for scrap through waste merchants. The Non-Ferrous Metals Control have appointed experienced representatives in each region to advise upon the best use of salvaged non-ferrous metals. The donor can avoid any possibility of utensils being diverted and resold before they are broken up by himself rendering them unusable for their original purpose.

Mr. Simmonds

Is it not a fact that although non-ferrous metals are very urgently required, the drive has been chiefly for ferrous metals, and would my hon. Friend consider whether more publicity could be given to the need for nonferrous metals?

Mr. Macmillan

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Stokes

Would the hon. Gentleman say at approximately what date the experienced people referred to were appointed in the districts? How long ago was it?

Mr. Macmillan

I could not say.