§ 2. Mr. Benceasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what increase in the steel allocation has been made since 1st June to the burgh of Clydebank for the completion of the refuse destructor.
The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Commander Galbraith)My right hon. Friend regrets that in present circumstances he is unable to increase the supply of steel for this project; but he appreciates the desirability of making progress with it as soon as possible, and will do everything he can to facilitate this as supplies become available.
§ Mr. BenceIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the Clydebank Structural Iron Company are prepared to deliver to the burgh at least 20 tons which they have in stock, and that they are in a position to draw upon the stocks of other merchants, in order to enable the burgh of Clydebank to continue with the construction of this destructor; but that, unfortunately, they cannot do that until they have received an authorisation from Edinburgh? Will he therefore see that this authorisation is sent forward, so that the burgh of Clydebank can get hold of this steel and get on with the job?
Commander GalbraithNo, Sir; not at present. Steel is in short supply, and it is important that it should be used for the most essential purposes, which, in the meantime, are mainly water supply schemes.
§ Mr. BenceIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that an authorisation has been given for the use of 60 tons of steel for this job, but that these 60 tons cannot be got from the rolling mills, whereas the Clydebank Structural Iron Company has steel in stock, but cannot release it from their stock without an authorisation? Will he see that an authorisation is given to release that steel in stock, because an authorisation for 60 tons has already been given?
Commander GalbraithI am aware of that, but it appears doubtful whether the town council will be able to obtain delivery in the third period of 1952, and we have therefore substituted an authorisation for the first period of 1953.