asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what steps are being taken to explore and develop lead and zinc in the North Pennines.

I have already appointed a committee to inquire into the resources of certain minerals in the United Kingdom, including lead and zinc, and to recommend means for their economic development. I propose to await the report of this Committee before considering any further action.

Since it would be economic for the country, and in view of the fact that experts are of the opinion that this is a sound economic proposition, will my right hon. Friend treat it as a matter of urgency?

I set up this committee some time ago, but I directed them to inquire first into the possibility of tin exploitation, which we regard as ex- tremely important, but they will, of course, address themselves with urgency to other matters.