§ 38. Mr. HOLTasked whether the plant of the British manufacturers of dyes is now being so used as to secure the maximum output of dyes or whether any part of it is being diverted to the production of other articles, such as munitions of war; and, if so, to what extent the output of dyes is less than the maximum of which the plant is capable?
Mr. HARCOURTIt has been found necessary to utilise part of the plant of some of the makers of dye-stuffs for the manufacture of explosives, and the output of the remaining dye-making plant in existence has been adversely affected by the shortage of materials. It is not possible for me to give the exact data asked for by my hon. Friend, but he will be glad to learn that the production of dye-stuffs in this country has made very substantial progress since the commencement of the War.
§ 39. Major HUNTasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will explain why a firm named Grime Nattalis, of 38, Deans-gate, Manchester, is still being allowed to do business and compete with British firms, in view of the fact that it is entirely German, that the manager is a German, by name Muller, and that the firm is still making money and having their name and business kept before the public till the War is over?
Mr. HARCOURTI am asking the Advisory Committee to consider the case 1659 referred to and advise the Board of Trade whether an order should be made requiring the business to be wound up.