§ Captain BARNETTasked the Minister of Munitions whether, in view of the decision to import wire rods into this country, steps will be taken to issue trading permits to the regular importers of these goods in accordance with the principles laid down by the London Chamber of Commerce and the Commercial Committee of the House of Commons and approved by the Prime Minister in a letter to the former body dated 1st July?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe importation of wire rods is only a temporary measure, as it is hoped that in three months this country will be self-supporting in this respect. On arrival the rods will have to be distributed to the particular wire mills where they are most required for Government contracts, and as merchants will not be in possession of information on this subject, they would not be in a position to undertake the distribution of the rods. In the circumstances, I am afraid it will not be practicable to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion.