§ 95. Mr. Murrayasked the Minister of Materials if he is aware that Messrs. Athole G. Allen, Stockton, Limited, have decided for the present not to proceed with the establishment of a barytes plant at Littleburn Estate in the Brandon and Byshottles Urban District Council area of County Durham, due to the delays and lack of encouragement by his Department; why such delays have occurred and what steps he is taking to enable this firm to reconsider their decision.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftI have been asked to reply. According to my right hon. Friend's information, Messrs. Athole G. Allen decided not to proceed with this plant on account of the fall in demand for barytes. He has been unable to trace any complaint of particular difficulties. and has no knowledge of delays or lack of encouragement. If Messrs. Allen have difficulties, and will make them known to the Ministry of Materials, they will be given all possible assistance.