HC Deb 22 February 1954 vol 524 cc26-7
47. Mr. G. R. Strauss

asked the Minister of Supply whether the Iron and Steel Board has yet reached agreement with the Federation as to which body shall be responsible for keeping the in dustry's statistics.

Mr. Low

The Iron and Steel Act, 1953, leaves it to the Iron and Steel Board to decide how to arrange the compilation and publication of statistics; and my right hon. Friend has therefore no responsibility in this matter. I understand, however, that the Board has, in this connection, reached agreement with the various trade associations concerned, including the British Iron and Steel Federation.

Mr. Strauss

Will the hon. Gentleman tell us what sort of agreement it is? Who in fact is responsible? Will it be the Board or the Federation? This is very important indeed.

Mr. Low

The Iron and Steel Act, 1953, lays down that, The Board shall compile and publish, or secure the compilation and pubication of, such periodical statistics and reports relating to iron and steel products as may appear to them to be expedient. The Board has been discussing this matter with the trade associations interested, and I understand from it that the Board will be compiling certain statistics itself, including all the key figures, and that the Federation will continue to compile statistics relating to iron and steel for its own purpose. The Board will have full access to all information necessary for its purposes.

Mr. Strauss

As this is rather difficult to follow, will the hon. Gentleman assure us that the Board, in its first report, will state fully and exactly what division of labour has been agreed upon, and who is responsible for what?

Mr. Low

I will see that that point is brought to the notice of the chairman.