HC Deb 15 July 1946 vol 425 c853
40. Mr. Heathcoat Amory

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether increased imports of wood pulp for paper-making will be obtainable from Norway and Sweden during the next 12 months.

Sir S. Cripps

Discussions in regard to supplies of pulp for paper making from Norway and Sweden for the next 12 months are proceeding, but it is clear that the supply position will continue to be difficult.

Mr. Wilson Harris

Is the Minister aware that a statement was made by the chairman of a firm of papermakers last week to the effect that we cannot get wood pulp from Norway and Sweden because, in the absence of coal from this country, they are burning their wood?

Sir S. Cripps

That is undoubtedly one of the difficulties.

Mr. Amory

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that the Minister of Labour was reported in the newspapers recently as saying that Norway and Sweden were getting into their stride again and that larger supplies could be expected, and does he consider that statement to be compatible with the reply he has just given?

Sir S. Cripps

It is quite compatible, but I cannot say, until we have completed the negotiations, what the outcome will be.