§ 28. Mr. Russellasked the President of the Board of Trade what quantity of manufactured salt was imported from Germany and Spain in the first five months of 1952; and the purpose for which it was used.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftManufactured salt is not separately distinguished in the trade returns, but total imports of salt from all sources in the first five months of 1952 amounted to £71,522, of which £49,049 was from Germany and £15,824 from Spain. Over 98 per cent. of imports were fishery salt.
§ Mr. RussellIs my right hon. Friend aware that some of this fishery salt seems to have spread inland, for which purpose it was presumably not intended? Is it necessary to import any manufactured salt at all, apart from fishery salt? Cannot our manufacturers supply all that we need, and for export?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftI understand that the main demand for this fishery salt comes from the herring industry, which shows a marked preference for it. We should hesitate before we question their choice.