§ 39. Mr. Houseasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the dearth of scientific books being sent from this country to Czechoslovakia and other central European countries; and whether he will facilitate an increase in the supply.
§ Mr. BelcherTrading with the enemy restrictions still apply to certain central European countries, and in other cases the shortage of scientific books in this country at present limits the supplies that can be sent. The Board of Trade and the Foreign Office are anxious to see an expanding export of books to these countries, and with that object in view the British Council has recently arranged book exhibitions in Czechoslovakia and certain other central European countries.
§ Mr. BossomIs the shortage due to the absence of pulp for making the paper?
§ Mr. BelcherVery largely, yes.
§ Mr. David RentonIs there any reason for maintaining the trading with the enemy restriction? Does this not appear to be an obstacle to trade which might otherwise be taking place?
§ Mr. BelcherThat is a totally different question.