asked the President of the Board of Trade what arrangements he is making to assure adequate supplies of hessian for manufacturers to package carpets and rugs for export from the United Kingdom.

Even though all possible purchases of hessian are being made, total supplies are inadequate to meet all requirements. It is, however, my aim to meet the requirements for export packing in full.

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that the delivery of hessian is very protracted at the present time due to the jute shortage, whereas his Jute Department insists on a short-term licensing procedure which is causing grave embarrassment to carpet exporters? Would he put a stick of dynamite under his Jute Department?

If the hon. Gentleman will give me any specific case where jute licensing is not being met by deliveries, I shall be glad to look into it.