§ 2. Mr. Butcherasked the Secretary for Mines the price paid for benzol to gas companies at the outbreak of war and the price now being paid; whether he is satisfied that this is a fair price; and what steps are being taken to increase the production of benzol?
§ Mr. LloydUnder pre-war arrangements, the price of benzol was determined on the basis of an agreed formula, which was not completed until a considerable period after the end of the year. The final figures in respect of the year 1938–39 have not yet been announced. The question of current and future prices is at present under discussion between the interested parties. As regards the last part of the Question, as I informed the House on 20th March, the Committee on High Temperature Carbonisation have already recommended methods of increasing the recovery of benzol, and these recommendations are being implemented.