asked the Minister for Finance if he will state how many applications for currency, to pay for imports of timber from Russia, were granted in each of the years 1948, 1949, 1950, and to 30th June, 1951, and in each case the date of approval, and the amount approved.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Russian Timber Exports.
The particulars requested by the Deputy are as follows:—
In 1948 no applications were received in respect of foreign exchange for Russian timber.
In 1949, two applications were received and approved on 1st July and 4th August, respectively, the amounts being £8,200 and £26,500.
In 1950, three applications were received and approved on 24th April, 2nd October and 15th December, respectively, the amounts being £15,000, £14,500 and £14,500.
In 1951, up to 30th June of that year, one application was received and approved on 5th June, the amount being £140,000.
Could the Minister indicate to the House out of which of these consignments did the timber come which was subsequently shipped to Belfast for sterling—or was it out of any of these consignments?
That is an absurd supplementary question.
It is a very pertinent one.
It is much more interesting to know whither the timber went and whence it came.