HC Deb 01 April 1946 vol 421 cc808-9
21. Mr. Boothby

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is now in a position to make a statement about the future of the iron and steel industry.

33. Mr. Warbey

asked the Minister of Supply whether he has completed his examination of the reorganisation report submitted to him by the iron and steel industry; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that this industry is conducted in accordance with the national interest

The Minister of Supply (Mr. John Wilmot)

I am not in a position to make a statement about the future of the iron and steel industry.

Mr. Boothby

Is it not a fact that the report on this industry has been in the hands of the Government for some months, and also that the continuing uncertainty about this basic industry is damaging to our economic recovery? When will the Government be in a position to state what they propose to do?

Mr. Wilmot

I cannot say.

Mr. Boothby

In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I propose to raise this master on the Adjournment.

Mr. Warbey

rose—

Mr. James Callaghan

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker. When a Member has a second Question on the Order Paper which is answered at the same time as the first one, is it permissible for the first hon. Member to give notice in that way and thus prevent the second hon. Member from asking a supplementary question?

Mr. Speaker

It is permissible, although I am very sorry that the hon. Member who had a similar Question on the Order Paper, and which was replied to at the same time, was not able to ask a suppleinentary question before the first hon. Member gave notice that he would raise the matter on the Adjournment.

Mr. Boothby

I am very sorry that I prevented the hon. Gentleman from asking a supplementary question and I apologise to him. I still wish to raise the matter on the Adjournment.