asked the Minister of Supply how much German steel scrap has been imported during the last 12 months; how much has been exported from Germany to the United States of America in the same period; what price was paid by the British and the American buyers, respectively; and in what currency was payment made.

During the 12 months ended 31st March, 1949, just over 1 million tons of iron and steel scrap was imported into the United Kingdom from Germany. I have no accurate information about the quantity which was imported by the United States, but I understand it was about 625,000 tons during the same period. Prices, of course vary, but the general price paid by the British was £7 2s. 6d. a ton free alongside German port. This was paid in sterling. The corresponding price paid by the United States was 28.50 dollars. paid in dollars.