§ 30. Mr. Hurdasked the Secretary of State for Industry what steps he is taking to encourage the use of straw for the manufacture of paper.
§ Mr. CryerIn association with the Paper, Printing and Packaging Industries Research Association, a paper machinery manufacturer, and a number of leading papermaking companies, my Department has collaborated in an investigation of the possible use of straw for paper making. The group is now considering the results of this work but a number of very diffi-478W cult problems remain to be overcome. The Department is prepared to continue its participation, if a convincing case for doing so is established, and if other interested parties also agree to be fully involved. Assistance is currently available under the £23 million scheme to encourage the use of indigenous fibres by the paper and board industry.