HC Deb 13 June 1940 vol 361 cc1385-6
66. Captain Plugge

asked the Minister of Supply what steps he is taking, in addition to the development of schemes for avoiding waste and collecting more waste material, to encourage the scientific utilisation of waste and the provision of the necessary plant and organisation to that end?

Mr. Harold Macmillan

With a view to encouraging the scientific utilisation of waste from industry, the Salvage Department of the Ministry of Supply is working in consultation with the Federation of British Industries, the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, and the Director of Scientific Research in the Ministry. To assist in this work the appointment of a chemist with special research experience has been approved. The scientific utilisation of materials collected under the schemes of local authorities is under the constant consideration of the officials of the local authorities, many of whom hold scientific or technical qualifications. In such work they are assisted by the officials of the Salvage Department and 23 honorary district advisers, particulars of whose qualifications were given in answer to a Question yesterday by the hon. Member for Yardley (Mr. Salt). In cases where additional plant is necessary applications are considered in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health.

Captain Plugge

Is the hon. Member aware that a Parliamentary and Science Committee of this House appointed a subcommittee to investigate the scientific utilisation of waste? Is the hon. Member's Department keeping in close consultation with this sub-committee?

Mr..Macmillan

We desire the closest possible contact on this matter with any official or unofficial committee that is set up.

Mr. Shinwell

Is the hon. Member aware that in spite of all the talk about the collection of waste material, there are some authorities which are doing nothing in the matter? Cannot we use some power to compel them?

Mr. Macmillan

My right hon. Friend was asked a Question on this matter two or three days ago, and I think he gave a reply somewhat in the direction indicated by the hon. Member.

Mr. Shinwell

Will the hon. Member take note that the Wandsworth Council are doing nothing in this matter?

Mr. MacLaren

The hon. and gallant Member for Central Wandsworth (Colonel Nathan) is going to the House of Lords.