§ 77. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the delays caused in the development of the docks at Avonmouth; that some work has been held up after commencement and some unable to start because of the shortage of steel; and, in view of the importance of our ports in the scheme of re-armament, if he will take immediate steps to increase the supplies.
Mr. BraithwaiteDelays have occurred in the completion of certain works at Avonmouth because the contractors concerned were unable, prior to the reintroduction of steel allocation, to place orders for the necessary steel. We are fully aware of the importance of making the best possible provision for our ports, but with the present shortage of steel it is inevitable that some desirable and even essential schemes should be delayed from time to time.