§ Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the amount of basic slag available for agricultural purposes has decreased; and, if so, what steps are being taken to make up the deficit.
§ Mr. William RossThe production of basic slag, which is a by-product of the manufacture of steel, was affected by the fuel crisis of the winter of 1973 as regards United Kingdom production, and by production difficulties on the Continent which reduced imports of this material. These difficulties are now being overtaken.
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§ Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he estimates that more basic slag is likely to be available in 1974–75.
§ Mr. William RossBasic slag of grades suitable for agricultural use is not produced in Scotland. Inquiries I have made suggest that supplies from other parts of the United Kingdom and the Continent should be available in greater quantity in 1974–75.
§ Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will authorise the payment of subsidy on shipments of basic slag to Orkney and Shetland which were on the way before the end of May.
§ Mr. William RossAs the Fertilisers Scheme expired on 31st May 1974, I have no statutory authority to pay subsidy on deliveries made after that date. I have, however, exceptionally and with the agreement of the Treasury, authorised payment of two shipments of basic slag to Orkney and Shetland which were in transit from Belgium and would have been delivered by 31st May were it not for the effects of an unavoidable and identifiable delay.