asked the Minister for Economic Affairs if he is aware that steel allocation arrangements give many firms steel but in such inadequate quantities that all firms have some steel but no single firm enough to complete essential jobs; and if he will review the present system.

I have been asked to reply. I recognise that steel supplies are inadequate to meet all requirements for home and export uses, but in allotting steel to consumers under the allocation arrangements Departments do their best to ensure that essential needs are met as far as possible. As my right hon. Friend the Minister for Economic Affairs announced in the House on 23rd October, the steel control scheme has already been reviewed with a view to ensuring that deliveries follow closely upon allocations.

Is the Minister aware that to my knowledge there are three important businesses all of which have 65 per cent. of the steel they require and none of which can complete its orders? They have the orders but they are waiting for steel. Would it not be better to give one of them a full quota and let the other two do without?

I cannot be aware of what is in the hon. Gentleman's knowledge, but if he will send particulars I will look into the matter.

Has this industry an absolute priority in respect of supplies of steel? We have received representations from companies that if they had the steel they could produce the machinery.

I think the right hon. Gentleman is now referring to a Question which has not been asked. Question No. 49 does not refer to that particular industry.