asked the Minister of Supply what action is being taken to ensure adequate supplies of the basic metals to the engineering shops in the Bristol area.

Owing to the present shortage of certain basic metals, it has been necessary to reduce supplies to engineering firms in all areas in recent months. There are allocation schemes in force which should ensure that manufacturers get their fair share of the material available. If my hon. Friend has any particular case in mind where the shortage is causing serious interference with essential production, I will look into the matter if he will let me have details.