HC Deb 18 November 1946 vol 430 cc38-9W
115. Mr. Palmer

asked the Minister of Supply if he will make a statement on the method of disposal of Government surplus steel.

Mr. Wilmot

All Government surplus stocks of iron and steel, including scrap, are disposed of by Iron and Steel Disposals Limited, whose capital is wholly owned by the Ministry of Supply and who operate under the direction of the Iron and Steel Board. Prime and re-usable steel is sold direct to consumers, where practicable, or through merchants to the smaller consumers. All surpluses are sold at controlled prices, where these apply, or at the best prices that can be obtained. The Ministry of Supply receives the proceeds of all sales.