HC Deb 27 July 1926 vol 198 cc1885-6
8. Mr. H. WILLIAMS

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the first part of the Report on the Census of Production will be published; and to what industries will it relate?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I am unable to add anything to the reply given by the Secretary to the Department of Overseas Trade to my hon. Friend on 26th April last. Every effort is being made to expedite the preparation of the Reports.

Mr. HANNON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether his experience has been that there has been difficulty in getting returns in that way?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

There was a certain amount of delay, there always is; but I think generally it is due to the smaller rather than to the larger people who had to make returns. They are coming in much more satisfactorily lately, and I hope to be able to get out the particulars earlier than expected.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Is it intended to publish this Report on the lines of the previous Report, namely, as the parts are ready?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I should like to have notice of that question. I want to give any information that is available as rapidly as I can.