HC Deb 23 October 1918 vol 110 cc808-9W
Mr. JACOBSEN

asked the Minister of Reconstruction (1) if any machinery has been set up, or is in process of being set up, to decide the priority of allocation of paper and envelopes among the users and sellers of the various descriptions of paper and envelopes after the War, and the nature of such machinery; and

(2) If any machinery has been set up or is in process of being set up to decide the priority of allocation of paper-making materials, paper-making machinery, envelope-making machinery, etc., after the War; and if special facilities will be given to manufacturers who have been successful in securing business in neutral markets formerly dominated by alien enemies and manufacturers who have temporarily lost their export trade owing to war conditions?

Dr. ADDISON

The Government has, upon my advice, appointed a Standing Council upon Post-War Priority to consider all questions connected with priority and the allocation of materials and machinery where a shortage is to be anticipated.

The Council will consist of representatives of industry and commerce and of labour, together with representatives of certain Government Departments, and upon broad questions of policy will be under the direction of a Committee of Ministers presided over by General Smuts. Representative bodies of the industries concerned will be consulted by the Council. It is hoped that the Standing Council will hold its first meeting at a very early date.