§ 16. Mr. Nabarroasked the Paymaster-General, having regard to the mounting demand for steel of all classes and types, whether he will make a statement concerning the proposed date of publication of the White Paper on Steel, to cover capital investment in the industry, production, estimated demand and all associated matters.
§ Mr. MaudlingThe Iron and Steel Board's second report on the development of the iron and steel industry will be published this month.
§ Mr. NabarroIs it my right hon. Friend's intention that that report shall take the place of the White Paper on the future capital requirements of the steel industry which a few months ago, I understand, was promised to the House? Having regard to the fact that steel production and distribution is now directly within my right hon. Friend's Ministerial competence, may we have an assurance that there will be a White Paper on the future capital arrangements of the steel industry?
§ Mr. MaudlingWhen this Report is published it will be laid before both Houses of Parliament in accordance with 676 Section 16 (2) of the Iron and Steel Act, 1953. Whether that makes it a White Paper I cannot say, but it will produce the facts.