HC Deb 23 November 1953 vol 521 cc22-3
38. Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

asked the Minister of State, Board of Trade, as representing the Minister of Materials, what action he proposes to take to implement the recommendations of the Report of the Monopolies Commission on the Supply of Imported Timber.

The Minister of State, Board of Trade (Mr. Heathcoat Amory)

My noble Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has already invited representatives of the imported timber trade to discuss the Report with him.

Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

Will my right hon. Friend tell his noble Friend that this is a comparatively simple restrictive practice to abolish, and would he impress on him that here is an opportunity for us to show that we really mean business in this matter?

Mr. Amory

I feel we can safely leave it to my noble Friend to ensure that the public interest is fully watched.

Mr. Jay

As the Government took nearly a year to make up their minds about the match monopoly, can the Minister tell us how soon we shall get a decision this time?

Mr. Amory

I think the right hon. Gentleman will agree that there has been no undue delay so far.

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