§ 47. Mr. Edmund Harveyasked the Minister of Production whether his attention has been called to the urgent need of a more adequate supply of paper for the publication of good books and for the reissue of standard works now out of print for which there is great demand, amongst others, by Government Departments; and whether he is now prepared to increase the allocation of paper to the publishers for this purpose.
§ The Minister of Supply (Sir Andrew Duncan) (for Mr. Lyttelton)I have been asked to reply. I regret that the present paper supply position does not permit of an increase in the allocation of paper for books. A special reserve of paper which is administered by the Board of Trade is set aside for specific books of an essential character which cannot be produced from a publisher's quota, and any publisher can make application for an allocation from this reserve.
§ Mr. HarveyWill consideration be given to the great need of some further increase before the autumn publishing season, for the whole educational work of the country?
§ Sir A. DuncanThe situation is being kept under constant review.
Mr. AstorIs my right hon. Friend aware that all the copies of the redevelopment plan for Plymouth have been sold out; and in view of the importance of the plan to all other bombed cities, will he increase the allocation of paper for a further printing?
§ Sir A. DuncanPerhaps my hon. Friend will send me particulars.
§ Mr. MathersWill the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind the necessity for the maintenance of the output of paper manufacturers?
§ Sir A. DuncanYes, Sir.
§ Mr. KeelingIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that there is not a large amount of paper wasted on bad books?
§ Commander Locker-LampsonDo not books come before propaganda?