§ 64. Mr. Gerald Williamsasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that sodium chlorate can be purchased in France; and what steps he is taking to use this source to meet the shortage for agricultural purposes which exists in this country.
§ Mr. H. WilsonYes, Sir. I am satisfied that importers are taking up all the sodium chlorate that is at present available in France for export to this country.
§ Mr. WilliamsCan the President of the Board of Trade say why there is a shortage in France? I understood that there were unlimited quantities there. Surely it would be much better to bring this highly desirable sodium chlorate from France rather than to try to obtain it elsewhere?
§ Mr. WilsonThe reason for the shortage is that the French producers are 2210 handicapped by shortage of electricity. We are continuing our pressure on the French Government to make more sodium chlorate available. Having done that, it is a question of the private importers acquiring all there is, which I am satisfied they are doing.