§ 59. Mr. Brian Parkynasked the President of the Board of Trade what was the carriage, insurance and freight value and tonnage of phthalic anhydride imported during the last six months for which figures are available; and what were the corresponding figures for the previous six months.
§ Mr. DarlingI regret I cannot give this information. To do so would disclose the business of individual traders.
§ Mr. ParkynIn view of the fact that most of the phthalic anhydride manufactured in this country is still made from naphthalene, and that there are periodic world wide shortages of phthalic anhydride which many people believe are artificially contrived, may I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is satisfied that there is sufficient control over the export of this material?
§ Mr. DarlingWith regard to the export of naphthalene, what has 1609 happened is that British manufacturers are now getting a higher price overseas than was formerly the case, and I understand also that the production problems are being discussed with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Power as this is a problem which comes within his jurisdiction.