§ 41. Mr. George Chetwyndasked the Minister of Supply whether he will make a statement about the black market in steel in the north-east and what action he proposes to take in the matter.
§ Mr. SandysThere is growing evidence that steel is being sold at black market prices in various parts of the country, including the north-eastern counties. Known cases are being investigated.
§ Mr. ChetwyndIs it possible to deal with this matter through the courts?
§ Mr. SandysTwo convictions were obtained last week, two other prosecutions are pending and 35 other cases are being examined by Ministry of Supply investigators.
§ Mr. EdelmanWill the Minister bear in mind that there is also a very extensive grey market, in which many so-called respectable firms take part? Will he endeavour to make the existing control effective so that allocation may have the effect of steel going to the firms concerned with export industries and the defence programme?