Blown Timber

HC Deb 24 March 1953 vol 513 cc69-70W

65. Mr. Spence

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is satisfied that sufficient supplies of heavy equipment, such as creeper tractors fitted with winches, are available to enable Scottish woodlands to be cleared of blown timber before deterioration sets in.

Mr. J. Stuart

So far as can be foreseen at present, sufficient heavy equipment can be made available. Arrangements are being made to place suitable equipment where required. The position will be kept under review.

66. Mr. Spence

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will investigate the possibility of using a proportion of blown Scottish timber for the manufacture of pulp and synthetic fibres.

Mr. J. Stuart

It is expected that all the blown timber will be absorbed through normal trade channels. Special measures in respect of the manufacture of pulp and synthetic fibres do not appear to be necessary.

70. Mr. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that, six weeks after the gale, the bulk of the blown timber in the North-East of Scotland has not been sold; that no agreement has yet been reached for a flat railway rate for timber transportation, or for the amount of timber that will be taken by the National Coal Board; that licences are still being refused for the purchase of blown timber of narrow width; and what steps he is taking to deal with this urgent problem.

Mr. J. Stuart

I have kept in close touch with the position. As my right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary stated in the House yesterday, the Government have decided to help financially with arrangements designed to ensure that the timber is cleared before it deteriorates. Details of these arrangements are now being worked out and I will make a statement as soon as possible. With regard to licensing of sawn softwoods, any timber user who holds a consumer licence may use it for any type of softwood, including wind blown timber.

73. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland his present plans for making the timber blown down in Scotland during the recent great storm available to British factories for productive purposes.

Mr. J. Stuart

Steps are being taken to ensure the speedy conversion and marketing of this timber. As my right hon. Friend the Minister of Materials informed the hon. and learned Member yesterday, special arrangements are being made about the issue of consumption licences.