HC Deb 31 October 1955 vol 545 cc81-2W
127. Mr. J. Hynd

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the shortage of steel, partly owing to buyers laying in excessive stocks; and whether he will now resume powers to control the distribution of steel in order to take steps to end this practice.

Mr. Low

Stocks of steel at consumers' works were no higher in relation to consumption at the end of June than they were at the end of 1954. Although the high level of industrial demand is causing some difficulties in supply, they are not such as to justify the reimposition of control.