§ Colonel PENRY WILLIAMSasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions what stock of hardwood is held by the Ministry of Munitions and other Departments at the present time, and why are not these stocks sold forthwith for needs of furniture and other industries?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThe stock of imported hardwoods held by Government Departments is in round numbers 11,500,000 superficial feet, divided between the Surplus Property Disposal Board, the Board of Trade, and the Admiralty. Furniture makers and others have been al liberty to purchase from these stocks ever since the Armistice at auction sales and by private bargain. A large auction sale took place on 25th September, and another will be held on 13th November.