§ Mr. McKinlayasked the President of the Board of Trade why 4-inch scrim, used by plasterers, priced at 3s. per 100 yards on 13th June, 1944, now costs 7s. 6d. for the same quantity; and why the Ministry of Supply, Jute Control, Dundee, has intimated to West of Scotland firms that supplies can now only be purchased through plaster board makers.
§ Captain WaterhouseIf my hon. Friend will send me the names of the firms which have raised their prices, I will look into the matter. As regards the second part of the Question, I am informed that the Ministry of Supply, in agreement with the Ministry of Works, arranged that supplies of scrim required for jointing plaster boards should be distributed only through plaster board manufacturers. This is to ensure the use of this material only in exceptional circumstances so as to effect the utmost economy, since the world shortage of jute necessitates a strict control of its use.