HL Deb 20 June 1979 vol 400 cc1099-100WA
Lord INGLEWOOD

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How far they are using elm panelling or furniture in British pavilions at overseas fairs in order to advertise the decorative properties of this underrated wood.

Lord TREFGARNE

While acknowledging the decorative and other qualities of elmwood it is not considered economic or indeed practicable to use this material in British pavilions at overseas fairs owing to its high relative cost, the temporary nature of exhibitions and the difficulties likely to be experienced by contractors employed by Her Majesty's Government in obtaining elmwood overseas. Neither is it considered economic or practicable to stock and use elmwood furniture for these events owing to the time involved in transportation, consequent damage and the high cost of maintenance and repairs. The small amounts of furniture required are normally obtained locally on a hire basis.