HC Deb 23 January 1967 vol 739 cc943-4
2. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources how much public money is being spent on sales promotion of home-grown timber.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Land and Natural Resources (Mr. Arthur Skeffington)

None, Sir.

Mr. Digby

Is it not about time this was done, in view of the enormous public investment—over £100 million—in the woodlands of the Forestry Commission? These trees are coming along in increasing quantities. Should not something be done without further delay?

Mr. Skeffington

My advice is that as far as timber of good quality and at the right price is concerned, there is an adequate market. Difficulties arise in connection with some of the low-grade timber which is produced. This is really very much more a matter of finding additional use, rather than sales promotion.