HC Deb 15 October 1945 vol 414 cc712-3W
Sir G. Fox

asked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production what quantities of paper have been salvaged for reprocessing during each of the war years; and what steps are being taken in country districts to encourage local authorities to collect waste paper, thereby saving unnecessary imports and loss of foreign exchange.

Mr. Palmer

asked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production if he will take steps to draw the attention of the public, by wireless broadcast or otherwise, to the still urgent need to salvage waste paper.

Colonel Dodds-Parker

asked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production what steps he is taking to ensure the efficient collection of waste paper, to enable the paper industry, and allied industries, to continue at a reasonable output and increase their export trade.

Mr. Wilmot

The need for paper salvage is as great as ever for wallboards for houses and packaging for export and other essential purposes. I will broadcast on this subject in the near future, and have already addressed a personal message to every local authority asking for their continued co-operation in collecting waste paper. A cash bonus on collections has been offered to local authorities to assist them in stepping up their collections. The rural district councils, which cover the country areas, often have to rely on voluntary assistance for this important work, and I would take this opportunity of thanking the voluntary helpers and of appealing to them to continue to co operate with their local authorities.

Total Collection of Waste Paper
1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945 (1st six months)
Tons. Tons. Tons. Tons. Tons. Tons.
806,941 759.183 874,118 700,353 659,500 299,173
of which by local authorities
248,851 299,840 433,403 319,944 273,173 115,045