HC Deb 15 July 1946 vol 425 cc848-9
26. Mr. Osborne

asked the President of the Board of Trade what negotiations have been commenced with the U.S.S.R. for the import to the United Kingdom of Soviet soft woods; for how long have these trade talks been proceeding; and what is preventing their successful conclusion.

Sir S. Cripps

The Soviet authorities have been aware for a very long time that in 1946 we should wish to purchase large quantities of soft wood from them, and since August, 1944, have been aware of our requirements. I am in constant touch with the Soviet Trade Delegation on this matter but they have not so far found themselves in a position to make any firm offer.

Mr. Osborne

Is the Minister aware that in the trade there is a feeling that political considerations are preventing the fulfilment of these negotiations and, since this timber is so important to the housing programme, can he not do something about it?

Sir S. Cripps

I assure the hon. Member we are doing all we can about it.

Mr. Osborne

But you have been doing that since 1944.

32. Mr. Osborne

asked the President of the Board of Trade the value and the quantity of the timber imports to the United Kingdom from the U.S.S.R. for the 12 months ended 30th June, 1944, 1945 and 1946, respectively.

Sir S. Cripps

As the answer includes a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

IMPORTS OF TIMBER FROM THE U.S.S.R.
Pitprops. Softwood (mainly sawn). Total.
Piled cubic fathoms. £ Standards. £ £
12 months ended June, 1944 5,044 101,039 12,917 532,211 633,250
12 months ended June, 1945 11,973 255,709 31,411 1,247,555 1,503.264
July-December, 1945 2,975 59,386 7,626 279,649 339,035
The figures for June are not yet available. There were no imports during January to May 1946.