§ Mr. J. Lewisasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that powdered whiting, which is an essential compounding ingredient in the rubber and cable industries, is in short supply; and if he will take steps to ensure that a proper allocation is made to these industries, having regard to the large demands for this material for the building programme.
§ Mr. WilsonI have been asked to reply. I am fully aware that powdered whiting is in short supply and that many essential uses, including those which my hon. Friend mentions, are going short. I am not aware, however, that the rubber and cable industries are receiving less than a fair share of the output in comparison with the other industries dependent on whiting. The shortage of supply is principally due to lack of labour, and all possible steps, including the submission of names for Class B release, are being taken in conjunction with the Ministry of Labour to provide for the necessary recruitment, and further expansions of capacity are being made.