§ Mr. Johnstonasked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence whether he is aware that between 31st March, 1936, and 31st March, 1937, MS joists and bars have risen over 100 per cent. in price, MS plates 75 per cent., electrolytic copper 98 per cent., copper (strong sheets) 85 per cent., standard tin 40 per cent., English lead 90 per cent., soft pig-lead 95 per cent., virgin spelter over 100 per cent., osmiridium 95 per cent., and hemp 60 per cent.; and, in view of the importance of these commodities on the national rearmament programme, what steps he proposes to take to protect the public from further price rises?
§ Sir T. InskipI am informed that the increase of price quoted for mild steel joists and bars and plates during the period mentioned has not exceeded about TO per cent., and as the right hon. Member is no doubt aware, the British Iron and Steel Federation is taking steps to prevent any undue increase in the prices of such goods. With regard to the other materials, I would point out that our supplies come mainly from overseas and that it is not within the power of the Government or industries in this country to control the prices of such supplies.