§ 76. Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the Minister of Health what effect, if any, the invasion of the Ruhr by the French has had upon the prices of pitch and tar in this country; whether he is aware that local authorities in this country find it difficult to proceed with road construction owing to the high cost of such material; and whether, in view of these facts, he will take some steps to relieve the situation so far as the local authorities are concerned?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I have been asked to reply. I am unable to state in what degree the rise in the price of pitch and tar is due to the occupation of the Ruhr. While regretting the inconvenience suffered by local authorities, owing to the increasing cost of these materials, I am aware of remedy that can he applied by the Government.
§ Mr. DAVIESIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the cost of pitch and tar has increased since the invasion of the Ruhr by 80 per cent.?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI said I know of no remedy that can be applied by the Government.
Lieut.-Colonel WATTS-MORGANIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the local authorities are taking the pitch and tar, and so preventing briquettes being made for this country from small coal?