HC Deb 01 March 1971 vol 812 cc302-3W
51. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what answer he has given to requests to give additional assistance to the paper industry.

Mr. Anthony Grant

I have received no such requests, but as my hon. Friend indicated in his reply to the hon. Member for Rutherglen (Mr. Gregor Mackenzie) on 15th February, he is prepared to discuss the situation if the industry considers it useful.

Mr. Brewis

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what consideration is being given by his Department to the use of phormium tenax or New Zealand flax as a replacement for manila pulp in paper-making; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Ridley

The present usage of manila pulp is very small. A project for developing the use of phormium tenax for pulp manufacture has, however, been put to the Department, and we are considering what advice should be given.