§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many mills have been closed or are on short time because of shortage of pulp imports; what impact these shortages are likely to have on newsprint supplies for the smaller circulation newspapers; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. MeacherI understand from the British Paper and Board Industry Federation that, to its knowledge, no United Kingdom mills have been closed because of a shortage of pulp imports. Some difficulty is, however, being experienced at present by some mills in maintaining adequate supplies. I understand also that United Kingdom newsprint production is not currently affected by such a shortage, but my Department continues to be in close contact with the industry.