§ Mr. Hewitsonasked the President of the Board of Trade what the softwood quota-holders' remuneration is; and whether he is satisfied that, in general, it is sufficient.
Mr. H. WilsonSoftwood quota-holders are remunerated by the allowance of a discount from the statutory prices at which they resell. The margins are reviewed annually: those at present applicable are 7 per cent. to first-hand quota-holders and 5½ per cent. to secondhand quota-holders. The rates were last adjusted in July, 1949, and the rates applicable for the past and the coming 12 months are now under review. I am satisfied that the rates fixed have, in general, been sufficient.