HC Deb 16 June 1953 vol 516 cc705-6
1. Mr. Gower

asked the Minister of Works what steps he will take to deal with the shortage of cement in South Wales.

The Minister of Works (Sir David Eccles)

The cement industry have arranged imports of Continental cement into South Wales, and supplies are improving.

Mr. Gower

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that this step will make satisfactory provision for the needs of the building industry in the South Wales area?

Sir D. Eccles

I hope so; but the expansion in building is, of course, very satisfactory.

Mr. G. Thomas

Will the Minister exercise any control over the distribution of this cement, or is it left to the industry itself?

Sir D. Eccles

The industry are responsible for the distribution, but they do consult me from time to time.

Mr. Peter Freeman

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether Belgian cement, which he said was available and of equal quality, is stipulated in any Government contracts to reduce this shortage?

Sir D. Eccles

The Belgian cement is now up to British standards and no user need be frightened to buy it.

2. Mr. Gower

asked the Minister of Works what steps he will take to deal with the shortage of bricks in South Wales.

Sir D. Eccles

The output of bricks in South Wales is increasing. It is a matter of satisfaction that the demand is high, and with economy in the use of bricks, I hope it can be met.

Mr. Gower

Is the Minister aware that one brickworks to which I have drawn his attention is in a somewhat precarious position? Will my right hon. Friend bear this in mind in making his plans?

Sir D. Eccles

Yes, Sir.