HC Deb 18 November 1942 vol 385 cc345-6
50. Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Minister of Production whether he is aware that by importing pulp instead of manufactured paper for newsprint a saving of one-third of the shipping space could be effected; and, as there are mills in this country with capacity to deal with the conversion of pulp to paper, what steps he proposes to take to effect this economy?

Mr. Garro Jones

My right hon. Friend is aware that some saving in shipping, though not as much as is suggested, is obtained by importing pulp instead of newsprint. On the other hand, the manufacture of paper makes demands on fuel and labour. The programme of imports for next year has been arrived at on a balance of these considerations and involves a reduction in the importation of newsprint compared with this year.

Mr. Edwards

Is the hon Gentleman satisfied that the profit-making capacity of British-owned mills abroad will not be the governing factor?