§ 62 and 63. Mr. Adamsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) on what grounds the decision was taken to run down strategic reserves;
(2) what arrangements he is making to improve the stockpiling of strategic reserves.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThe decision was to slow down the general rate of stockpiling and in the case of some commodities to use stocks acquired for the strategic stockpile in order to reduce the current level of imports. It is very desirable to strengthen our stocks, but at present it is more important to reduce our overseas expenditure and to maintain the supply of materials to industry.