HC Deb 30 May 1949 vol 465 cc1707-8
17. Mr. Wilson Harris

asked the Minister of Supply whether, having regard to the obsolescence of much of the printing-plant in this country, and the consequent disadvantage at which British trade and technical journals are placed in competition with similar periodicals published overseas, he will permit the retention in this country of sufficient printing-plant to replace machinery no longer capable of high-standard production.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

During the last six months more printing machinery has been available to the home market, owing to increased production. My Department is at present reviewing the distribution, in consultation with the Board of Trade, to see what further help can be given to British printers.

Mr. Harris

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise what valuable ambassadors trade journals of this kind can be, if properly produced, and that they will not fulfil that function if they are not properly produced?

Mr. Strauss

Yes, Sir.