§ Major Lyonsasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the continued shortage of low-priced undecorated crockery; whether he will review the concentration that has taken place in this industry to ascertain how far this is due to factories, capable of producing large numbers of such articles having been closed and merged with firms not so fitted for large scale production of low-priced commodities and which normally manufacture a different article; and why, in view of present demands and shortages, two modern well-equipped factories, particulars whereof have been given him, able to produce millions of all-white cups and saucers annually, are closed and their machinery left lying idle?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir. There is still a shortage of certain kinds of domestic pottery, although supplies have increased considerably since June and further steps to increase production have been taken recently. Labour and fuel are the principal factors limiting an increase in production, and the re-opening of factories previously closed under the concentration scheme would need careful consideration.