HC Deb 08 December 1959 vol 615 cc210-1
20. Mr. Lawson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will now state what proportion of the steel to be used in constructing the Forth road bridge will be manufactured by Scottish firms.

Mr. Maclay

I am informed that orders for more than 90 per cent. of the steel for the main towers are being placed with Scottish firms. But the complex problems involved in ordering different kinds of steel of different qualities for the superstructure will only be solved as its prefabrication progresses.

Mr. Lawson

In view of the fact that there is no price competition in domestic steel, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the basis upon which the orders are placed? We are, of course, delighted to learn that such a high proportion of Scottish steel is used in these cases, because that did not seem to be so originally on the information which we first received.

Mr. Maclay

The first part of the supplementary question does not arise directly out of the Question. I should like to consider what the hon. Member has said before making any comment.