§ Mr. Hardyasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he is satisfied that the supply of cobalt required by British industry is currently sufficient; that the supply is likely to continue at an adequate rate; and what steps he is taking to secure this.
Mr. Alan WilliamsI am aware that the supply of cobalt to British industry is less than most United Kingdom consumers of cobalt want. This is because international demand for cobalt far outstrips current supply and Zairean cobalt is rationed.
My Department is considering urgently how regular and sufficient supplies of cobalt for British industry can be secured.