HC Deb 20 November 1918 vol 110 cc3394-5
3. Colonel Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHS

asked the Secretary of State for India if, in view of the importance of monozite to the gas-mantle industry of this country, he will take the necessary steps to ascertain from the Indian Government their views as to the conservation to the British Empire of the monozite supplies of India?

Mr. MONTAGU

These supplies are now in British hands, and the Government of India are fully alive to the importance of preventing the Travancore deposits from falling again under foreign control.

40 and 56. Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHS

asked (1) the President of the Board of Trade if it is intended to introduce legislation to protect the incandescent mantle industry and its raw material; and (2) The Chancellor of the Exchequer if it is intended to include in the protection of key industries the recently developed monozite and thorium industries in India and this country?

Mr. PRATT (Lord of the Treasury)

The position of the gas industry and of the industries upon which it is dependent, especially the manufacture of thorium nitrate from monozite sand, is under consideration, but I am not at present in a position to state the action which the Government will take in the matter.

Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHS

Is my hon. Friend aware that, unless it is taken in some form or another, these industries will have to shut down when it comes to open competition with foreign markets?

Mr. PRATT

I will bring that before my right hon. Friend.

Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHS

Will he bear that in mind?

Mr. PRATT

Yes, Sir.