Timber

Written to mark the centenary of the Timber Trade Federation, this book illustrates the important role timber has played in Britain's trade and its economy. As a basic material for the construction, furniture and packaging industries, timber has long been one of Britain's principal imports. The authors of this book outline the origins of the British timber trade and its overseas contacts, showing how the demand for this essential raw material was satisfied. After World War II, Britain's dependency on timber emerged as a core element of national trade policy. Consequently this book discusses trade associations and government-business links and deals with transport policy, restrictive practices and industrial rationalization. Finally, the book considers what has become a key issue - the commercial consequences of growing environmental concern.