HC Deb 17 May 1971 vol 817 cc208-9W
Mr. Moate

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if it is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to encourage the maintenance in the United Kingdom of a paper industry of approximately the same size as at the present time.

Mr. Ridley

The Government's economic and industrial policies are aimed at encouraging the growth and prosperity of industry generally. The size of any individual industry must depend on the size of the markets for its products, here and overseas, and on its ability to compete.

Mr. Roger White

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what studies he has made of the potential of home-based forestry to supply pulp to the United Kingdom paper and board industry.

Mr. Ridley

The review of forest policy announced on 11th May by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, will take this matter into account.

Mr. Roger White

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the current rate of return on capital of the United Kingdom paper and board making industry.

Mr. Ridley

Precise figures are not available, but I am writing to my hon. Friend giving him such information as I have.