§ Mr. PaiceTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what representations he has received suggesting he should impose restrictions on the subsidised imports of waste paper from the United States of America and Canada.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 3 July 1989]: I have received a small number of letters expressing concern at the level of imports of de-inking grades of waste paper from the USA and Canada. I am not aware of any evidence to suggest that the current low levels of imports are having an adverse effect on the United Kingdom waste paper market, but I will continue to ensure that the situation is carefully monitored.
§ Mr. PaiceTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what steps are being taken to avert the expected shortfall in supply of waste paper, expected to be at its peak in 1993; what response has already been forthcoming from local authorities, paper merchants, newsprint producers and voluntary groups; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 3 July 1989]: A shortfall in the supply of de-inking grades of waste paper used as a raw material in the manufacture in the United Kingdom of newsprint is expected to build up over the next few years, possibly peaking in 1993, as additional manufacturing capacity comes on stream. Accordingly, my Department has organised a national series of 11 seminars to bring to the attention of local authorities and voluntary organisations the increasing number of opportunities which will become available to them to assist over the next three to four years in the collection of more newsprint grade waste paper. This programme of seminars is still under way. So far the response has been encouraging.