§ 43. Mr. Geoffrey Cooperasked the Minister of Works how many schemes have been sanctioned for the building of new cement plants during the twelve 1264 months ended 30th September, 1948; how many approved for construction or major extensions to existing plants; how many of these are for independent companies; and how many for firms in the cement combine associated with the cement marketing organisation.
§ The Minister of Works (Mr. Key)Sanction has been given in the 12 months for the building of one new cement plant and for a major extension to an existing plant. In the former, but not in the latter, case the firm sells through the Cement Marketing Company. Both firms are members of the Cement Makers' Federation.
§ Mr. CooperIn view of the information he has given, would my right hon. Friend further consider the proposals put to him by myself something like 12 months ago, in view of the great advantage that scheme had in probably reducing the price of cement and improving the conditions in which the workers would operate?
§ Mr. KeyOn both occasions when this matter was brought to my attention, I sent an invitation through the hon. Gentleman to the promoter of the scheme to discuss this project with officials of my Ministry, but that offer was not taken up.