HC Deb 08 July 1947 vol 439 cc215-6W
Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

asked the President of the Board of Trade what quantity of white Italian marble has been imported since the war for the manufacture of gravestones and other memorials; and whether, as there are ample quantities of local stone available for these purposes in this country, he will discourage the bringing here of material which, when erected, is out of keeping with its surroundings.

Mr. Belcher

Between July, 1945, and the end of May, 1947, 6,132 tons of rough or sawn marble and chippings have been imported from Italy, for use in memorials and for building. As regards the second part of the Question, there is a shortage of labour, and supplies of home produced stone are not sufficient to meet the demand.