ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the emergence of the large iron and steel concerns of Western Europe. The iron and steel industry adapts itself slowly to changing geographical conditions. The pattern of movement of ore, fuel, pig-iron and steel within Western Europe could be varied within the limits set by the capacities of plant. By the removal of all artificial causes of friction in the movement of ore, metallurgical fuel, scrap, pig-iron and crude and rolled steel, the community seeks to ensure that the industry grows where essentially geographical conditions are most suitable for it to develop efficiently and economically. The steel-rolling industry and all branches of the steel-finishing industries produce large quantities of scrap. A brief survey is undertaken of the iron and steel industries of each of the countries of Western Europe. Germany has fully regained pre-war position as the biggest iron and steel producer in Western Europe.
