HC Deb 12 May 1971 vol 817 cc133-4W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he has received the communication from the hon. Member for West Ham, North, sending a letter from the Society of Graphical and Allied Trade making complaints against the Government's actions in regard to the paper and board-making industry; and what was the nature of his reply.

Sir J. Eden

The communication from the hon. Member was received on 7th May and a reply will sent as soon as possible.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Trade Industry whether he is aware that in 1960 the United Kingdom consumption of paper and board was 5.2 million tons whereas in 1970 it had increased to seven million tons, an increase of 34 per cent. in 10 years; why during this period imports were allowed to reach 35 per cent. of total requirements when British home production, which could have supplied these needs, was run down to the detriment of Great Britain's workers and balance of payments; and what action he proposes to take to change this situation.

Sir J. Eden

I am aware of the situation described by the hon. Member. It arises because under successive Governments, purchases of paper and board have been free to exercise their commercial judgment in placing their business. As my hon. Friend said in his reply on 3rd May, following discussions with the industry about the trading practices of certain Scandinavian countries, we have decided to raise the matter with these countries again.