§ 36. Mr. C. WILLIAMS(for Captain SOTHERON - ESTCOURT) asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the increased imports of foreign setts and kerb during recent months, he will consider the advisability of taking fresh steps to urge upon local authorities the necessity of using British setts and kerb in all their road-making operations?
§ Mr. WOMERSLEY (Lord of the Treasury)My hon. Friend is aware that there has been an increase in the importation of foreign setts and kerbs during the last three months. He has no reason to suppose, however, that the increase is due to the use of foreign materials for grant-aided schemes, and it may be accounted for in some measure by seasonal fluctuations in the volume of road works put in hand. It is not thought necessary to address a further communication to local authorities in view of the Circular already sent to them, a copy of which is being sent to my hon. and gallant Friend setting out the conditions attached to all grants from the Road Fund towards the cost of works.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSWill the hon. Member ask the Minister to look into this matter rather more closely to see whether there is any unnecessary increase in the use of foreign materials?
§ Mr. WOMERSLEYI will certainly put that request before my right hon. Friend and also inform him of the hon. Member who desires to get the information.