HC Deb 21 October 1946 vol 427 cc1295-7
35. Mr. Edelman

asked the Minister of Supply whether he will increase the quota of steel for the motor industry during the next quota period.

78. Mr. Warbey

asked the Minister of Supply what steps he is taking to ensure that sufficient supplies of steel sheet will be available to British motor vehicle manufacturers to enable them to maintain full production during the year 1947.

Mr. Wilmot

Demand is at present in excess of supply, and available supplies of steel must be allocated in such a way as to meet vital programmes and provide a balanced distribution amongst industry generally. I can, however, assure my hon. Friends that full consideration will be given to the claims of the motor industry.

Mr. Edelman

Is my right hon. Friend fully aware that a restriction of steel supplies is likely to throw the whole motor industry out of gear, and to cut production to 50 per cent. capacity? Will he give the industry the necessary priority for full production?

Mr. Wilmot

I cannot guarantee priority over all other users. The output of steel sheeting is higher today than ever before, but there has been an enormous increase in demand, partly due to the substitution of steel for other materials which are in short supply. We are, however, reviewing the position with a view to making the best use of the supplies which we can get.

Mr. Warbey

Can my right hon. Friend say whether the allocation of steel sheets to the motor industry will allow for a greater or lesser production of motor vehicles in 1947 than in 1946? Can he put that in the form of a percentage?

Mr. Wilmot

Until the review which I am making of the whole position is finished, I cannot answer that question. Nor are we quite sure that the failure of imports will continue.

Mr. Molson

Will the Minister say what steps he is taking to secure the importation of steel from overseas?

Mr. Wilmot

The Chairman of the Iron and Steel Federation, and others, are in the United States at the moment for that very purpose.

Mr. Stokes

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is a firm conviction among manufacturers that too many plates and sections are being exported? If I put down a Question, will he give the amounts?

Mr. Wilmot

Certainly.

Mr. Edgar Granville

Can the Minister say whether his Department are examining every possible substitute for steel?

Mr. Wilmot

Yes, Sir.