HC Deb 22 March 1948 vol 448 cc294-5W
91. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Supply how much steel wire for fencing is being allocated to Kenya this year compared with 1947; and if he will arrange for increased supplies of fencing wire, pumps and engines to be sent to this Colony so that the large number of new settlers can make full use of the land they are now taking up.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Each quarter a given tonnage of steel is allotted for the manufacture of all types of wire for export, but there is no allocation of wire to individual countries. In both this field and that of the export of pumps and engines, the industries concerned are given general guidance about the relative importance of different export destinations which should ensure that the Colonies get their fair share of limited supplies. I shall, however, bring the hon. Member's anxiety on the question of these supplies to Kenya to the notice of the industries concerned for such action as may be possible under the above principle.