§ 134. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Supply if he is aware that marine engine builders are importing steel plate from the Continent at high premium rates; and what action he will take to secure adequate supplies from British manufacturers.
§ Mr. LowYes. I am aware that a number of users, including some marine engine builders, have supplemented their supplies of steel plate by imports from countries where prices are higher. Steel plate production in the United Kingdom, however, increased in the first nine months of this year by nearly 200,000 tons over production for the same period in 1952; a further improvement is expected in 1954.