17. Mr. Philips Priceasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that there exist in Gloucestershire those quarry owners' associations which prevent competition in the supply of stone to highway authorities and maintain prices at artificially high levels; and whether, in view of this, he will look into the prices of stone contracted for with these associations in Gloucestershire for roads in respect of which he is responsible for care and maintenance.
Mr. BraithwaiteNo, Sir; I am not aware of the circumstances as stated in the first part of the Question, but if the 464 hon. Member will send me the evidence upon which his statement is based, I will have the matter investigated.