HC Deb 07 March 1918 vol 103 cc2096-7
9. Mr. BYRNE

asked the Chief Secretary if he will cause inquiries to be made into the delay in issuing permits for timber required for the destroyed area of Dublin; if he is aware that buildings in course of construction are being seriously damaged by weather owing to the withholding of timber required for roofing; and if he will say to whom are the owners and builders to apply for compensation?

Mr. SAMUELS

The delay in issuing permits for timber required for the destroyed area in Dublin arises from the fact that the timber in stock in Ireland at the present time is insufficient to meet the many large demands made upon it. The Chief Secretary has been in constant communication with the Controller of Timber Supplies with' a view to obtaining additional tonnage for timber imports, and he is informed that in December last an offer to issue permits to the extent of 450 to 500 standards of imported timber towards the 900 standards required was made by the Controller to the Lord Mayor of Dublin, leaving the corporation to find the balance out of home-grown timber, but that no reply has been received to this offer. Owners and builders do not appear to have a claim for compensation except so far as it arises under their respective contracts.

Mr. BYRNE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that two years ago guarantees were given from that bench that special facilities would be given with regard to the destroyed areas in Dublin and those guarantees have not been kept?

Mr. FIELD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that large quantities of timber which would be useful for building purposes in Ireland are allowed to be exported, and will he inquire into it?

Mr. SAMUELS

I have no information.

Mr. FIELD

Will you try to get it, please?

Mr. SAMUELS

If the hon. Member will put down a specific question, every endeavour will be made.