HC Deb 12 December 1961 vol 651 cc224-5
Mr. Denis Howell

Mr. Speaker, I beg to ask leave to move the adjournment of the House, under Standing Order No. 9, for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance, namely, the proposed transfer of subsidiary companies by Messrs. Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds and Messrs. Delta Metals Ltd. which will create monopolies in the field of manufacture of brass screws and of brass rod and wire, and which will be against the public interest. I should like to make a brief submission on the points about which I have to satisfy you, Mr. Speaker—that it is a definite matter, that it is very urgent and is likely to happen within the next 24 hours, that it is of urgent public importance.

Delta Metals Ltd. acquired the one company within the last sx months. It acquired 15 companies in this field within the last three years, and if this goes through it will create a tremendous monopoly in brass rod and wire for Delta Metals Ltd. and of brass screws for Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds.

As the Government are one of the largest buyers of brass products, it will also create tremendous complications for the taxpayers and, generally speaking, will obviously be against the public interest.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member for Birmingham, Small Heath (Mr. Denis Howell) asks leave to move the adjournment of the House, under Standing Order No. 9, for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance, namely, the proposed transfer of subsidiary companies by Messrs. Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds and Messrs. Delta Metals Ltd. which will create monopolies in the field of manufacture of brass screws and of brass rod and wire, and which will be against the public interest. The hon. Members' application is not in order. There is no Ministerial responsibility in these circumstances.