§ 27. Mr. LOUIS SMITHasked the Minister of Transport whether he will consider the desirability of asking Parliament for powers to prohibit the purchase of foreign road stone by local authorities in view of the fact that ample supplies of this material are available in this country?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Pybus)I deplore the use of foreign road material by local authorities in this country, and I am issuing a further circular urging those responsible for these purchases to review the position in view of the present grave situation. The hon. Member will, however, appreciate that the geographical position and exceptional transport facilities with the Continent enjoyed by certain counties render the question of seeking compulsory powers to prohibit all foreign material one of considerable difficulty.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEWill the Minister of Transport consider giving reduced grants to the authorities using foreign stone?
§ Captain GUNSTONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in Gloucestershire we have ample harbours and we export stone to every part of the country?
§ Mr. PYBUSIf, as my hon. and gallant Friend states, there are people in this country who are able to supply first-class materials at the same price as or at a less price than material dumped from abroad, I hope they will press on with it.
§ Mr. HERBERT MORRISONWould the Minister keep in mind the fact that the present Government is supported by a predominantly Protectionist majority and shape his course accordingly?
§ Mr. PYBUSI think the right hon. Gentleman is now asking a question with regard to policy which should properly be addressed elsewhere.