§ Mr. Lomasasked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he is aware of the continuing shortage of cement for the building industry; and what action he now proposes to take in the matter.
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§ Mr. BoydenMy right hon. Friend has discussed this shortage with the cement makers. Demand for cement has risen rapidly since 1963 and although deliveries rose by 22 per cent. in 1964 and by a further 5 per cent. in the first part of 1965, a marginal gap between supply and demand has appeared. The manufacturers are increasing supplies both from United Kingdom sources and by importing and this should ease the position. They are doing all they can to maintain deliveries to sustain progress on sites and they will be helped if consumers avoid over-ordering.