63. Sir W. BARTONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that dissatisfaction exists amongst users of colours for cotton textiles at the slow progress made by the British Dyestuffs Corporation, Limited; whether he is aware of reported internal friction and dissensions in the technical directorate; and whether, in view of the national investment in this company, he will say what, if any, control is exercised by this House?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI am aware that the British Dyestuffs Corporation is not at present, and is not likely to be for some considerable time, in a position to produce the whole range of dyestuffs required by the textile industries of this country, but in view of all the obstacles 974 which have to be overcome I do not think there is ground for dissatisfaction with the progress that has been made. I am aware that there have been some internal difficulties of a character not uncommon in the early stages of a large combination, but I am satisfied that every effort is being made by the directors to remove the difficulties in question. As regards the last part of the question, His Majesty's Government have two representatives on the board of directors, with special rights in order to secure the fulfilment of certain provisions of the memorandum and articles of association; but His Majesty's Government have no control beyond that of other shareholders over the internal management of the company.