HC Deb 04 March 1958 vol 583 c939
2. Mr. Idwal Jones

asked the Minister of Works what steps he is taking to safeguard the future of the brick and tile industry in North Wales; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Hugh Molson)

I am aware that there has been a decline in output of bricks in North Wales, but the trends of production in that area are not dissimilar from those elsewhere. Production of tiles increased in 1957.

Mr. Jones

Is the Minister aware that this is one of the few basic industries in the Wrexham area, and that there is ample raw material and a wealth of traditional skill there? Does he appreciate that there is grave concern in the area lest the industry should become extinct or be considerably reduced, bearing in mind that two or three brickworks have already closed down or been threatened with closure?

Mr. Molson

The whole brick industry is facing competition from new and, in some cases, more suitable building materials.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Less housing.

Mr. Molson

Of the two brickworks which have been closed in North Wales, one at Llandudno Junction has exhausted its supplies of clay, and the other south of Wrexham has still some clay reserves but the kilns are in a somewhat ruinous state; this may be brought back to meet a seasonal demand.