§ 78. Mr. HOLMESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any subsidy has been paid towards the cost of 1108 the works of the National Smelting Company, Limited, at Avonmouth; whether the company has suspended building operations; and whether it is the present intention of the Government to subsideise the company or to take over the unfinished works?
Mr. HOPENo subsidy has been paid towards the cost of the works of the National Smelting Company, Limited, at Avonmouth. Certain advances, at interest, have been made by the Minister of Munitions to the company towards the cost. These advances are repayable at the expiration of ten years after the termination of the War and are secured by debentures. I understand that building operations have recently been suspended on the company's works at Avonmouth. The position of the company is at present under consideration.