§ 4. Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Power what is the expected profit or loss from the National Coal Board brick works during 1965–66; and if he will give a general direction to the Board to commission a study to report on the practicability of offering these brickworks for private ownership.
§ Mr. FreesonThe board's brickworks made an operating profit of £93,000 in 1965–66, a net profit of £1,000. The answer to the second part of the question is "No, Sir."
§ Mr. BiffenIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the net profit of £1,000 on the capital employed is an indication of how far below the proper standards of enterprise and skill these brickworks have been operated? Will he not reconsider his answer to the second part of the Question?
§ Mr. FreesonNo. Too many general observations should not be drawn from this reply. There is a very chequered picture to be seen over a number of years. Let me quote some of the figures. The net profit in 1962 was £208,000; in 1963, £181,000; and in 1964, £663,000.
§ Mr. AlisonCan the hon. Gentleman tell us whether these brickworks burn coal or oil and, since the profit is as low as it is at present, will he consider em-employing oil if only coal is used?
§ Mr. FreesonI could not answer that question without notice.