HC Deb 12 December 1945 vol 417 cc415-6
70. Mr. King

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has any proposals to make in order to improve conditions in the china clay industry.

Mr. Ellis Smith

We have asked a small committee consisting of Professor W. R. Jones, Chairman, Mr. Percy Harris, Mr. J. H. Bennetts and Mr. T. K. Rees, Secretary, to advise us on this subject with the following terms of reference: To inquire into the factors affecting the efficiency of the production of china clay and to report upon the methods which should be adopted to increase production to a degree sufficient to meet the probable post war requirements at home and abroad. The committee are beginning their work at once.

Mr. King

May I thank my hon. Friend for that very important statement, because I am sure it is vital that this industry should co-operate in full? May I also ask whether, in view of the fact that this step was taken without consultation with either the Union or the management, my hon. Friend would be prepared to discuss widening the terms of reference and personnel of that committee?

Mr. Smith

I said that all the interests in the china clay industry would be consulted.

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