§ Mr. Cyril Smithasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many paper mills closed in the period 1967 to 1975.
Mr. Alan WilliamsAbout 30 paper mills closed completely during the period 1967–75. About five of the closures have taken place since 1972.
§ Mr. Cyril Smithasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will institute a public inquiry into the state of the paper making industry.
Mr. Alan WilliamsThe paper and board industry is included in the Government's Industrial Strategy List. A tripartite working group is studying the industry, and considering possible solutions to its problems.