HC Deb 13 December 1950 vol 482 cc1158-9
72. Mr. G. R. Howard

asked the Minister of Food what quantity of tinplate is available to the British canning industry at the present moment.

Mr. Webb

The food canning industry will probably receive cans equivalent to about 33,000 tons of tinplate in the fourth quarter of this year.

Mr. Howard

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a considerable shortage of tinplate for this industry, and, while there is this shortage, will he make representations to his right hon. Friend to see that no tinplate is exported to Japan?

Mr. Webb

I am very well aware of the shortage of tinplate. It is a matter which is causing very great anxiety, and we are looking into it at the moment.

Lady Tweedsmuir

Is the Minister aware that firms in Scotland are not even receiving their allocations, and can he ensure that all tinplate manufacturers will at least receive their full allocations?

Mr. Webb

In this matter we work in close association with the producers and users of tinplate, and I think the allocations are quite fair.

Colonel Stoddart-Scott

Can the Minister say whether the amount is less than last year, and, if so, what is the percentage reduction?

Mr. Webb

I would like a Question to be put down about that.

Mr. P. Roberts

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how much is being exported at present?

Mr. Webb

That is another question.