§ 4. Mr. Bossomasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the present shortage of glue will lead, at an early date, to a curtailment in the manufacture of water paints; that certain manufacturers may be compelled to cease the manufacture of such paints due to this shortage; and what steps he is taking to remedy this shortage.
§ Mr. MarquandI am aware that supplies of glue, which is required for a wide range of products including paints and distempers, are not sufficient to meet the increasing demand. It was for this reason that the control over distribution was recently strengthened. We are discussing with manufacturers the possibili- 1025 ties of increasing production and am encouraging imports; but, as the position may remain difficult, I would urge using industries to explore vigorously the use of substitutes.
§ Mr. BossomWould the Minister mind indicating the substitutes that are available? They are very difficult to find.
§ Mr. MarquandI agree that it is very difficult. I understand that "Dxtrine" is a possible substitute.