§ 28. Mr. Swinglerasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the exports of the machine-tool industry are being jeopardised by a shortage of castings; and what action he is taking to assist the industry to overcome it.
§ Mr. J. RodgersNo, Sir. My right hon. Friend has no evidence of a general shortage of castings for the machine-tool industry.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs not the Parliamentary Secretary aware that one of my constituents sent him a mass of evidence, from the Foundry Trade Journal, and so on, showing that there is a shortage of castings and that many firms are complaining about how this is jeopardising their export trade, as is the call-up of 1623 apprentices as soon as they have completed their training? Will the hon. Member consider this matter?
§ Mr. RodgersThe Newcast Foundries have sent copies of letters from four other companies complaining about delay. In the main, these companies seem to be connected with the Newcast Foundries. I have examined the correspondence, but it does not appear to have established that there is a general shortage of castings which is preventing the export of machine tools.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs it not clear that there is a shortage of castings which is jeopardising the production of important exports? This is due to the call-up of specially skilled men who are required for the maintenance of production. Will the hon. Gentleman look into that aspect and send an urgent message about it to the Minister of Labour?
§ Mr. RodgersI cannot accept what the hon. Gentleman says, but if any machine-tool firm is finding difficulty in obtaining supplies of castings it will be well advised to get in touch with the Iron and Steel Board and discuss its problems with that organisation.