HC Deb 25 May 1922 vol 154 cc1421-2
64. Mr. WILLIAM SHAW

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport if he is aware that owing to the excessive railway rates charged on home-grown timber it is impossible to market this commodity at a profit; that great quantities of timber are being left in the woods to rot; and that three-quarters of the saw-mills in Scotland are standing idle, entailing much unemployment.; and can he say what steps he is prepared to take to secure a reduction in the railway rates?

Mr. NEAL

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply of the 8th instant to the hon. and learned Member for Rushcliffe, of which 'I am sending him a copy. I have no information as to the facts mentioned in the second and third parts of the question. I understand some concession in respect of pitwood used in Scotland has been granted by the Scottish companies.

Major HOWARD

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the railway companies are charging more for the carriage of home-grown timber than for sea-borne timber?

Mr. NEAL

That may very well be. But the traders have their own remedy if they care to adopt it.

Major HOWARD

Will the hon. Gentleman tell the House what are these remedies?

Mr. M. STEVENS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a certain class of timber carried into Lancashire from a certain port costs 42s. 9d. per ton, while the same class of timber imported costs 35s.?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Gentleman also appears to be on the wrong bench.