HC Deb 25 March 1947 vol 435 cc181-2W
86. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade, having regard to the danger of grave unemployment in the box-making industry of Aberdeen as disclosed in the letters from Messrs. William Fiddes and Son, Limited, of Aberdeen, already sent to him, if he can yet see his way to grant them a licence for timber to keep their box-making and saw-mills in operation.

Mr. Belcher

No, Sir. Licences cannot be granted merely to keep particular mills in operation. The firm will be treated on the same basis as other sawmillers and box-makers and, in this connection, I would refer my hon. and learned Friend to the replies to his Questions on 13th and 20th March. According to my information, this firm is not out of stock and is not closing down.