§ 81. Sir W. Wakefieldasked the Minister of Supply if he is aware that gas fires are being delivered by the Gas Light and Coke Company without asbestos radiants; that this company have had no delivery of radiants since February of this year; and why are supplies being held up.
§ The Minister of Supply (Mr. John Wilmot)I am aware of the shortage of gas radiants, which is due mainly to the lack of labour in the gas refractory industry. Every assistance is being given to this industry to recruit labour and obtain suitable premises and plant for expansion of output. The gas undertakings have been asked to consider metal radiants as a temporary substitute.
§ Sir W. WakefieldCan the Minister say how soon he expects the normal supply of radiants to be resumed?
§ Mr. WilmotIt is very difficult to give a forecast. It will depend upon the rate at which we are able to attract further labour into industry. I do not think I could give a very reliable forecast.