§ 95. Squadron Leader Cooperasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the shortage of phthalic anhydride which is causing difficulties to synthetic resin manufacturers; what is the reason for the shortage; what quantity has been exported during 1953; what quantity has been imported during the same period; and if he will relieve this product of key-industry duty during periods of shortage.
Mr. AmoryGrowing demand for this material and large scale American purchases in Europe have caused a temporary shortage, which should be ended next year by new capacity coming into production. I regret that figures of imports and exports during 1953 are not available, since this material is not separately distinguished in the trade returns. The possibility of temporary exemption such as was made between 1950 and 1952 is at present under consideration.