§ 37 and 38. Mr. Gibson-Wattasked the President of the Board of Trade (1) what quantity of birch, alder and sycamore poles were imported in 1954 and 1955 for the purpose of brushwork and turnery manufacture; and what proportion came from dollar countries;
(2) the quantity of stave oak imported for making beer barrels in 1954 and 1955; and what quantity was from dollar countries.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Peter Thorneycroft)These goods are not separately distinguished in the trade returns.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattWould my right hon. Friend look into this matter again and see whether from the trade returns he could give some details, particularly with regard to birch which is being imported from Canada, when there is plenty of birch for cotton reels in this country? Surely that would be a way of saving foreign currency?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftThis Question asks only for the figures. If my hon. Friend would see me about the policy, I should be glad to discuss it with him.
§ Mrs. MannIn view of the news on the tape, does the President of the Board of Trade really think that it will be necessary to roll out any beer barrels? Does he not think that a quarter-pint jug would now be sufficient for import purposes?