HC Deb 23 October 1941 vol 374 cc1936-7W
Mr. Pearson

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply the official number of successful introductions through the Machine Tool Clearing Centre in South Wales; are the unsatisfied demands heavy; have the representations of firms been satisfactory; by what arrangement is the auctioneer appointed; and what fee, if any, is paid for the work?

Mr. Harold Macmillan

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the Cutting Tool Committee for South Wales. This Committee is responsible for arranging meetings at which the needs of a firm for these tools can be met from the surplus of other firms by agreement amongst themselves. Two meetings have already been held under the chairmanship of a manufacturer, who conducted these meetings at the request of the Cutting Tool Committee and acted in an honorary capacity. No professional auctioneer was engaged. Approximately half the shortages were made good. The unsatisfied demands were not unduly heavy and further steps are being taken to meet them.