HC Deb 12 December 1944 vol 406 c1049
66. Sir L. Lyle

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is satisfied that sufficient paper exists for our export trade for distribution in the foreign countries where we hope to build up markets; and whether he will, for that purpose, restrict the amount of paper now used for ephemeral publications.

Captain Waterhouse

The supply of paper is lamentably short, and nobody is getting as much as he needs. I am in close touch with my right hon. Friends, the Minister of Production and the Minister of Supply, and when supplies improve exporters, as well as other users, will benefit. Meanwhile, I should not feel justified in suggesting that paper might properly be diverted from any particular class of publication.

Sir L. Lyle

Is it not scandalous that certain publications which are in evidence on the bookstalls and are yellow, both in colour and inside, should be given all those possibilities of production, while educational and business publications are not so permitted?

Captain Waterhouse

The Board of Trade has many duties, but to censor publications is not one of them.

Mr. De la Bère

Is not my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that the matter cannot be so lightly dismissed, and, in fact, cannot be dismissed at all?