HC Deb 27 March 1919 vol 114 cc599-600
78. Brigadier-General SURTEES

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the removal on 30th April of all restrictions of imports on foreign paper will take effect before British manufacturers are in a position to compete; and that, as a consequence, many mills will be laid idle and the re-employment of demobilised men rendered impossibe?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

My right hon. Friend is aware that the withdrawal of restrictions on 30th April is liable to place some mills at disadvantage in regard to competition. I need scarcely say that he is alive to the importance of preventing as far as possible the closing down of mills with resulting inability to employ demobilised men. He has been informed of the views of the paper industry on present conditions, and is giving them his attention.