Mr. Vaneasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the grave shortage of agricultural small tools such as scythes, axes, bill hooks, hedge slashers, digging forks and spades; and whether, in the new proposals for the provision of steel for agricultural machinery, consideration will also be given to an increased manufacture and distribution of these vital implements.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussI am aware that there is some difficulty in obtaining these tools, and we are at present discussing with the trade how supplies can be increased. The hand tool industry will continue to receive the maximum allocation of raw materials including steel, which can be made available under present conditions.