THE EARL OF MANSFIELDasked His Majesty's Government whether they are 550WA aware that a regulation is in force, which prevents a local authority from scheduling for removal for conversion to munitions, any iron gates or railings, for which a substitute would have to be erected, in the interests of agriculture, or public safety; and that a large tonnage of useful metal is therefore being left unutilized, which could be easily replaced by wooden or wire fencing, the materials of which would be much less valuable; and whether they will therefore consider the modification of the existing rule.
§ THE MINISTER OF WORKS AND BUILDINGS (LORD PORTAL)Current demands for scrap are being met without removing gates and railings for which a substitute would have to be provided. If and when it becomes necessary, such gates and railings will be taken also; but as both wood and steel wire, which would be required to provide substitute fencing, are in very short supply, I hope it will be possible to postpone this for some time to come.
House adjourned.