HC Deb 22 June 1953 vol 516 c122W
110. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of Works, in view of the fact that British cement is still in short supply and Belgian cement is available, cheaper and of equal quality, to what extent Government contracts specify that this cement should be used in place of that of British origin.

Sir D. Eccles

Belgian cement is dearer than British cement. Nevertheless supplies of cement from Belgium have been obtained by the British cement industry and sold in this country at the same prices as are charged for British cement.

In some Government contracts British cement is specified. The Ministry of Works contracts do not specify the country of origin but the cement must comply with B.S.12. Belgian cement which attains this standard is, therefore, acceptable to my Department.