§ 10. Mr. Collinsasked the Minister of Health if he will make a statement on the progress of the manufacture of building blocks from china clay waste; and whether, in view of the importance of china clay for export, he proposes to make any special arrangements for housing the additional workers required by this industry.
§ Mr. J. EdwardsChina clay waste is used in the manufacture of concrete blocks in Cornwall and South Devon. Ninety per cent. of the 1,250,000 square yards of block produced annually in that area is made from this material. In reply to the second part of the Question, I am not aware that any special housing provision is required for additional workers in the china clay industry.
§ Mr. CollinsIs my hon. Friend aware that production could be increased and additional houses built, and that it would relieve the necessity for importing other bricks with the result that it would assist the building programme generally?
§ Mr. EdwardsIf my hon. Friend will send me details, I will gladly look into the matter.
§ Mr. Douglas MarshallIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the calamitous position which this industry is in through lack of fuel, and will he press the Minister of Fuel and Power and the President of the Board of Trade on this point?