HC Deb 31 March 1952 vol 498 c1174
60. Mr. Austen Albu

asked the Minister of Transport what is the value of the allocation of steel so far made to the British Transport Commission for each of the periods of the year.

Mr. Maclay

It is not the practice to disclose particular allocations.

Mr. Albu

Can the Minister say what will be the effect on the cost of steel used by the British Transport Commission of the increases in steel prices which are about to take place?

Mr. Maclay

That is another question.

Mr. Sparks

As the Minister is responsible to the British Transport Commission for fulfilling their allocation of steel, why has he completely failed to do so?

Mr. Maclay

I simply do not accept that for one minute. My hon. Friend and I have worked very hard to see that the British Transport Commission get their fair and proper share of the allocation during the period when other priorities must have consideration.

Mr. Sparks

Is the Minister aware that one of his colleagues sitting beside him said in the House a few days ago that the Ministry were responsible to the British Transport Commission for their steel allocation?