HC Deb 28 January 1974 vol 868 cc20-1
17. Sir John Hall

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations have been made to him about the shortage of glass containers; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Anthony Grant

I have received a number of representations about the shortage of glass containers. The glass industry is doing everything possible to alleviate the situation and, in particular, to meet the needs of the dairy trade and the food, drinks and pharmaceutical sectors.

Sir John Hall

Does not my hon. Friend agree that the recycling of waste material is of great importance to a country that is short of both basic materials and energy? Is he not aware that we can no longer afford the luxury of non-returnable glass containers? Will he enter into discussion with the trade to see how the problem can be resolved?

Mr. Grant

I agree on the first point entirely. The glass industry is embarked on a programme aimed at significantly increasing use of waste glass in the manufacture of glass containers and finding other sources of supply. Non-returnable containers are a matter which falls within the responsibilities of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and I know that he will take note of what my hon. Friend said.

Mr. Molloy

One of the largest glass container factories, Rockware Glass in my constituency, was driven out of existence by threats by Slater Walker of take-over bids. As a result it was compelled to close the factory and sell the land to ward off the predatory intentions of Slater Walker. A thousand men were thrown out of work at a time when the company was bulging with orders for home and export markets. It cannot carry them out because it had to close the factory. Will the Minister now consult the Prime Minister and the Minister for Trade and Consumer Affairs to decide what legislation should be introduced to stop these predatory activities, which seriously damage British industry, far in excess of the damage attributed to alleged Communist activity?

Mr. Grant

As far as I could hear the hon. Member's speech I can only say that everything he said has been specifically denied by the chairman of the company.