§ 47. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what effect the current shortage of copper tube has had on the building industry; what is the reason for this; and what steps are being taken.
§ Mr. Armstrong:Deliveries in the first 10 months of this year were 17 per cent. higher than in the same period of 1977 and production has been at record levels. Nevertheless, shortages have been reported in many parts of the country, and the position is currently affected by an industrial dispute. Officials are discussing their difficulties with the industry.