§ 132. Mr. Errollasked the Secretary for Overseas Trade, as representing the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, what steps he is taking to increase the supplies of beryllium copper to manufacturers in this country; what is the present rate of importation; what is the total of outstanding demands; and if he will give an estimate of how soon they are likely to be satisfied.
§ Mr. H. StraussI have been asked to reply.
Beryllium copper is imported on private account, but my noble Friend understands that shipments of the master alloy from the United States, which is the only source of supply at present, have amounted to about 40,000 lb. so far this year. It would be contrary to practice to publish the volume of outstanding orders.
Importers have for some time been finding considerable difficulty in obtaining supplies, but I am glad to say that, thanks to representations through official and trade channels, the position has become rather more encouraging. Beryllium copper is, however, likely to remain scarce for the present, and I could not predict when the outstanding demand is likely to be met in full.