§ 25. Mr. George Porterasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to maintain the supply of timber available for the manufacture of furniture, so that unemployment in that industry will be avoided.
§ Mr. MarquandMy hon. Friend is, I am sure, aware that there is a world shortage of timber and that this is likely to continue for some time. We are doing everything possible to ensure sufficient supplies for furniture and other essential requirements.
§ Mr. PorterWhile I thank the Minister for that reply, is his right hon. and learned Friend taking cognizance of the fact that at this particular time of the year, in the alternative industry to which the men might be transferred, there will be considerable unemployment; and could not the cut in timber be held up until some more appropriate time?
§ Mr. MarquandNo, Sir. I am afraid we cannot hold it up. That would be too risky an undertaking altogether in view of our knowledge of the general world shortage. We make the cut with the greatest possible regret and reluctance.
§ Mr. PorterCan the Minister inform us to what alternative purposes the timber usually used for furniture can be put?