§ 20. Mr. Geoffrey Cooperasked the Minister of Works what is the quantity and value of Belgian bricks imported during 1946; what is the quantity and value of these imported into this country during 1947 up to the nearest convenient date; and what is the policy with regard to future purchases.
§ Mr. KeyDuring 1946 approximately 50 million English size bricks and 8 million Belgian size bricks were imported from Belgium. During the first eight months of 1947 a further 40 million English size and 4½ million Belgian size were imported. The prices of these bricks were 50s. per 1,000 for Belgian sizes, and from 68s. to 70s. 3d. per 1,000 for English sizes, f.o.b. Antwerp. The contracts under which these imports were made were completed in August last, and no further Government contracts are in contemplation.
§ Sir W. SmithersCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether any English bricks were exported to Belgium during this period?
§ Mr. CooperWill private builders' merchants be permitted to place contracts for the import of Belgian bricks to this country?
§ Mr. KeySo far as I am aware there is no restriction on a private merchant importing bricks from Belgium.