7. Mr. Charles Ian Orr-Ewingasked the Minister of Supply whether, as a result of his recent review, he is in a position to assure the radio valve manufacturers that they will receive adequate supplies of non-ferrous metals to enable them to meet their export, commercial and rearmament commitments.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussWorld supplies of non-ferrous metals are short, and I regret that I cannot give an assurance that adequate quantities will be available to meet all the commitments of the radio valve manufacturers.
Mr. Orr-EwingIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I asked a similar Question last November? Is he aware that I and my hon. Friends have been constantly told all sorts of things, that the Government plans are not yet ready and that the Government do not know what is required, whereas radio valves are badly needed by all the Services for electronic equipment? Does he realise that the requirements of this industry represent only 1 per cent. of the total raw materials of the country and that they should therefore be made available?
§ Mr. StraussI am well aware of that, but the hon. Member has asked for the specific undertaking that there will be sufficient metals available to meet all their exports, commercial and rearmament commitments. I cannot go as far as that.
Mr. Orr-EwingCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether we are to continue the export drive to the detriment of our rearmament programme?
§ Mr. StraussNo, Sir. I cannot give that undertaking.
§ Mr. A. R. W. LowWill the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that there will be enough non-ferrous metals for rearmament commitments?
§ Mr. StraussYes, Sir.