HC Deb 09 February 1949 vol 461 cc69-70W
Mr. J. Morrison

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the increasing fear among pitwood merchants and woodland owners that the market in this country for home-produced pit props is likely to decline still further owing to the inclination of the sole buyer, the National Coal Board, to buy imported props without regard to home production; and whether he will consult with the other appropriate Departments to ensure that all home-produced pit props can be absorbed at fair prices, thereby saving much foreign currency and helping British forestry.

Mr. H. Wilson

As I explained to the hon. Member in my reply of 25th January, our constant object is to encourage the home production of pitwood with due regard to considerations of forestry. The Board of Trade is in close touch with other Departments and the National Coal Board about ways and means of ensuring that as large a proportion as possible of our pitwood needs comes from home sources.

Mr. J. Morrison

asked the President of the Board of Trade what fraction of the mining timber, both sawn and in the round used in this country during 1948 was home grown; and how the price paid for this compared with the price paid for imported timber of similar types.

Mr. H. Wilson

About a quarter of out total consumption of all mining timber came from home sources during 1948. Controlled prices have remained constant during 1948, and in this connection I would refer the hon. Member to the reply to his Question on 2nd November 1948.