HC Deb 16 February 1953 vol 511 cc863-4
20. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Materials the highest percentage of waste paper utilised in the making of newsprint during the war; and the percentage now utilised.

The Minister of Materials (Sir Arthur Salter)

During the war 22½ per cent.; at present about 5 per cent.

Mr. Shepherd

In view of the great disparity between the percentages, would my right hon. Friend consider making two classes of newsprint, one for export, where almost all virgin pulp would be used, and one for home sources, where a much larger percentage of waste could be utilised?

Sir A. Salter

There is no doubt that the use of waste paper as a material has an adverse effect upon the quality of the newsprint produced. I am not sure whether my hon. Friend's suggestion is workable or not, but I will have it considered.