§ Mr. Sharpasked the President of the Board of Trade what is the present rate of production of formaldehyde in this country; to what extent home supplies were augmented during 1947 and 1948, respectively, by imports from Germany, United States, and other countries respectively; and what increase in home production and imports is anticipated during 1948.
§ Mr. H. WilsonThe present rate of production of formaldehyde is about 6,000 tons per month. During 1938 there were no imports from U.S.A. but 65 tons came from Germany, 347 tons from Belgium and 5 tons from other sources. No supplies were imported during 1947 but home production was greatly in excess of 1938. Production cannot be expanded further until more supplies of methanol are available and this question is being actively pursued. In view of the world shortage of formaldehyde, I do not at present expect any imports from abroad during 1948 though small parcels at high prices may be on offer.