asked the Minister of Supply if he will give details of the allocation of steel to Messrs. Platt Bros., Barton, for use at that factory for the manufacture of textile machinery for home consumption; and whether he is satisfied that such allocations are being utilised for the purpose intended.

I regret I cannot disclose details of allocations to individual firms. I have no evidence that the company is misusing its allocations.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that recently 112 employees have been dismissed on the ground of redundancy? Is he satisfied that this does not warrant an inquiry, became of the importance of textile machinery in relation to the cotton industry in general?

Yes, Sir, but I do not think that has anything directly to do with the steel allocations. So far as I am aware the steel allocations are being properly used by this firm.