Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Supply. – in the House of Commons at on 6 December 1939.
Mr John Wardlaw-Milne
, Kidderminster
asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that the increase in the price of jute is having a serious effect upon the carpet trade in this country; and what steps he is taking to enable firms in that industry to obtain the necessary raw materials at reasonable prices?
Mr Edward Burgin
, Luton
I am aware of the increase in the price of jute. It is, of course, a world price applying to all users, and does not so far appear to have affected consumption by the carpet industry in this country. The situation is, however, being carefully watched.
Ministers make up the Government and almost all are members of the House of Lords or the House of Commons. There are three main types of Minister. Departmental Ministers are in charge of Government Departments. The Government is divided into different Departments which have responsibilities for different areas. For example the Treasury is in charge of Government spending. Departmental Ministers in the Cabinet are generally called 'Secretary of State' but some have special titles such as Chancellor of the Exchequer. Ministers of State and Junior Ministers assist the ministers in charge of the department. They normally have responsibility for a particular area within the department and are sometimes given a title that reflects this - for example Minister of Transport.
