HC Deb 18 April 1944 vol 399 cc33-4
65. Mr. James Glanville

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works what steps have been taken to reopen the Charley Pit brickworks, with a view to eliminating unnecessary waste of fuel and man-power.

Mr. Young (Lord of the Treasury)

I have been asked to reply. The Charley Pit brickworks were put on to a care and maintenance basis under the Bricks (Control) Order of October, 1942, and in accordance with the policy and procedure recommended to my Noble Friend by the National Brick Advisory Council. The present output of bricks in county Durham is roughly equal to the present demand in that area, and there are in addition stocks in hand equivalent to 5½ months' demand. My Noble Friend does not consider that in these circumstances grounds exist for increasing the output of bricks in county Durham.

Mr. Glanville

Is the Minister aware that-output of coal has been hindered because of this state of affairs?

Mr. Young

I am not aware of it, until I have made the necessary inquiries.