§ 80. Mr. HOLMESasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether the National Smelting Company, Limited, has resumed building 882 installation operations at Avon mouth; if so, what is the nature of the arrangement which the Government has entered into with that company, or with other parties, to induce such resumption as the result of consideration of the whole position and consultation with experts; and whether the Board of Trade proposes to carry out the recommendations of the Post-War Sulphuric Acid Company, which recommendations were endorsed by the Government representatives serving thereon?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have been asked to answer this question. The arrangements made between His Majesty's Government and the National Smelting Company in 1917 have not so far been modified in any respect. The whole question of the future of the spelter industry in this country is receiving very careful consideration, but my right hon. Friend is not at present able to announce any decision on the matter.