§ 31. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Works what conclusions have been reached regarding the technical and economic problems raised by the large-scale application of the results of the experiments at the Building Research Station, Garston, Hertfordshire, in making bricks from a mixture of fly-ash from power stations and clay; and what quantity of bricks was produced by this method in 1956.
§ Mr. MolsonThe application to large-scale production of the techniques referred to is a matter for individual firms, of whom there are some 700 engaged in brick production, and I have no information on the matter. The economic value of fly-ash depends on the proximity of a brick works with a supply of suitable clay to a power station producing suitable ash. I understand from the Central Electricity Authority that in 1956 some 25,000 tons of ash was so used, and the amount appears to be increasing.
§ Mr. DoddsIs it not a fact that suitable ash and suitable clay have been brought together in Leicester and Glasgow? As it is desirable to make use of this waste material, is not the right hon. Gentleman's Department, or some other Department, trying to encourage some suitable firms to use this suitable fly-ash?
§ Mr. MolsonIn view of the information that the hon. Member appears to have on the subject, it hardly seems necessary for him to ask me the Question.