HC Deb 13 December 1938 vol 342 cc1774-5
15. Lieut.-Colonel Heneage

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fall in price during the past year of British timber used for pit-props; and whether he proposes to take any action?

Mr. Stanley

I am aware that the price both of home grown and of imported pit-props has fallen substantially below the abnormally high level which was reached last year, but my information is that present prices are not lower than those ruling in earlier years.

Lieut.-Colonel Heneage

Is it possible for the Forestry Commission as well as private growers to appear before the Import Duties Advisory Committee to put their case?

Mr. Stanley

No, Sir. They have a pre-emptive guarantee under certain trade agreements.

Mr. T. Smith

Is it not a fact that very little British timber is used for pit-props?

Mr. Stanley

Yes, Sir; I think it is about 5 per cent.

Lieut.-Colonel Heneage

If that is so, would it not be a good thing to encourage it, so that we get more than 5 per cent.?

Mr. Stanley

I understand that the price is still about 10s. over that of 1936, but that it has fallen from the high level of 1937.