§ 79. Lieut.-Colonel Byersasked the Minister of Supply what recent inquiry has been made into the functioning and practices of the iron and steel industries; and when a report will be published.
§ The Minister of Supply (Mr. John Wilmot)I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Peterborough (Mr. Tiffany) on 20th March.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ByersMay I ask the Minister, while not denying that these industries have something coining to them, whether he agrees that the answer may not necessarily mean nationalisation? Will he undertake to set up a private inquiry before proposing legislation?
§ Mr. LytteltonCould the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that this report will be published?
§ Mr. WilmotThat is a matter upon which I should require to consult its authors.
Mr. WarheyIs the Minister aware that the steel consuming industries and the export trade, as well as hon. Members of this House, are waiting with some impatience the announcement of the Government's plans to ensure ample supplies of steel at reasonable prices?
§ Mr. WilmotYes, Sir.
§ Lieut.-Commander BraithwaiteIn the meantime, can the industry have some coal?