§ 5. Mr. Chetwyndasked the Minister of Supply if he is aware that there is a shortage of electrodes which is slowing down work on important contracts in Tees-side; and what action he is taking to remedy this position.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussThere is a general shortage of welding electrodes, particularly in the heavier gauges. Measures are being taken to expand the output of the high grade steels needed for the production of 'electrode wire and to supplement this temporarily by special electric furnace production. I hope that as a result increased supplies of electrodes will become available.
§ Mr. ChetwyndIn view of the serious hold up in these contracts and the fact that many men are being stood off work at present, can the right hon. Gentleman say when he expects this result to come about?
§ Mr. StraussThere is a substantial in-cease of production now as compared with the last quarter of last year—something like 30 per cent. or even a little more—and we hope that the production of these electrodes will continue to increase.