§ 67. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Works if, in view of difficulties which have recently arisen, he is satisfied that arrangements for the distribution of cement are sufficient to ensure that supplies are available for all works in progress.
§ Mr. Eccles; Cement is distributed by the trade through normal channels. I am satisfied the general arrangements are usually adequate, but when cement has to be brought a long way local shortages are liable to occur.
There have been exceptionally heavy demands recently in Scotland for defence and other purposes and although supplies have been much greater than they were last year they have not been sufficient. Urgent steps are being taken to increase the supply still further.