Mr. DAVISONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any steps have been taken to give effect to the recommendations of the Departmental Committee appointed during the War to 1040W consider post-War conditions in the iron and steel industries of Great Britain; and, if so, whether he will indicate the measures to be adopted for the development of these industries in the future?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER:The Committee, to which the hon. Member refers, made 61 recommendations, some of which were of a temporary character, whilst others raised large questions of commercial policy which were entirely for the consideration of the trade itself. If the hon. Member will specify the particular recommendations which he has specially in mind, I shall be glad to see what information can be furnished.
Mr. DAVISONasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps, if any, are being taken by the Government for dealing with the existing depression in the iron and steel industries in this country; and whether any consultation has been, or is being, arranged with the employers and workers engaged in those industries with regard to more efficient methods of production and distribution?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER:The Prime Minister made a statement on this matter, in answer to the hon. Member for Penrith (Mr. Dixey) on 24th February, and to that I have nothing to add. While I know the difficulties of the industry are very considerable, I am glad to observe that recent returns show an increase in production.