Mr. Baldwin:

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the shortage of steel joists available to agricultural engineers in Herefordshire is holding up the erection of farm buildings, including a co-operative grass-drying plant; that, although constructional engineers have secured licences and forms M have been issued, manufacturers cannot supply; and what steps he is taking to make supplies available.

I am aware that delays occur in the supply of steel components for farm and other buildings, owing to the shortage of steel and to great demands on the rolling mills. I am not, however, aware of any special difficulties in Herefordshire, and if the hon. Member will send me particulars of such cases, I shall be glad to look into them.

Mr. Baldwin:

Is the Minister aware that I took up this matter with the Ministry of Supply on two or three previous occasions, and that they handed it over to the Ministry of Agriculture to be dealt with; and, further, that this is one example of the lack of co-operation between Government Departments, which is resulting in the exportation of steel needed for production at home, owing to the fetish of the export drive being considered as the only thing that matters?

I am not aware of that.

Mr. De la Bère:

I hope that the right hon. Gentleman soon will be.