§ 35. Mr. Parkerasked the Minister of Supply on what ground the quota of sheet steel to Briggs Motor Bodies has recently been reduced, with consequent laying-off of workers.
Mr. StraussMy Department makes only a small allocation of sheet steel to this company for the maintenance of plant. This allocation has not been reduced.
§ Mr. BingIs there anything further it is possible for my right hon. Friend to do, because this is a very serious problem in the area of my hon. Friend the Member for Dagenham (Mr. Parker), who asked the Question, and in my area?
Mr. StraussI am informed that out of a total labour force of about 9,000 people, 100 have been stood off, and the company does not expect to stand off any more; but, anyhow, the standing off has nothing to do with any action or inaction of my Department.