HC Deb 28 March 1945 vol 409 c1361
50. Mr. Petherick

asked the Minister of Supply why agents and importers of timber are not permitted to visit Sweden, Finland, Canada and the U.S.A. at the present time; and when facilities for such visits will be granted to them.

Mr. de Rothschild

Visits by representatives of individual timber firms to the countries mentioned could not at present assist, and might prejudice, arrangements for supplies of timber for this country. My right hon. Friend, however, fully recognises how important it is that individual firms should be able to renew personal contacts and every effort will be made to facilitate such visits as soon as practicable.

Mr. Petherick

Now that my hon. Friend has won his long-distance race and has weighed in, could I ask if he will use his influence with the Minister in order that representatives of British firms who wish to travel to different parts of the world may be enabled to do so?

Mr. de Rothschild

I will look into this matter.

Mr. Shinwell

Is the Prime Minister still determined to have men of good will in his party?