Catalyst for steam reforming of hydrocarbons

A process for the production of hydrogen and/or carbon monoxide rich gas with reduced formation by steam reforming of a hydrocarbon feedstock, the process comprising the step of contacting at 450.degree.-800.degree. C. the hydrocarbon feedstock and steam with a catalyst comprising nickel as a main catalytic component, a refractory carrier material for the nickel, and at least one catalytic element for the steam reforming of the hydrocarbon feedstock, said catalytic element being selected from the group consisting of germanium, tin and lead in proportions, calculated on the amount of metallic nickel in the catalyst, of 1-5%, 0.5-3.5% and 0.5to 1%, respectively.