§ 112. Mr. D. J. Williamsasked the President of the Board of Trade how many factories in the South Wales Development Area are unable to commence production because of shortages of steel; and what steps are being taken to improve supplies.
§ Mr. BelcherThe occupation of two factories is delayed owing to the shortage of steel, and several firms have withdrawn applications for new factory space because steel supplies are inadequate. In determining the distribution of steel supplies, full regard is had to the desirability of overcoming as quickly as possible shortages which delay the starting up of production in factories in the development areas, but I regret that the present steel supply difficulties will preclude any immediate improvement in the situation.