Answer:
During the 19th century Britain grew as an industrial nation. As a result, wood was in high demand for fuel and building. Rather than developing its own forests Britain became increasingly reliant on imports to meet its growing needs.
Explanation
The statement "England has forests, so why were they importing lumber?" seems contradictory at first. However, there could be several reasons for this. 1. Variety and quality: England may import lumber to gain access to a wider variety of wood species or to obtain wood of higher quality that is not readily available in their own forests. 2. Demand and supply: England's forests may not be able to meet the high demand for lumber in the country. By importing lumber, they can ensure a steady supply to meet the needs of various industries and construction projects. 3. Economic factors: Importing lumber from other countries may be more cost-effective due to factors such as lower production costs, economies of scale, or favorable trade agreements. It could be cheaper to import lumber than to extract and process it domestically. 4. Sustainability and conservation: England may have strict regulations and sustainable practices in place for their own forests to ensure their long-term health and conservation. By importing lumber, they can reduce the pressure on their domestic forests and maintain their sustainability. It's important to note that this is a general answer and the specific reasons for England importing lumber may vary based on historical, economic, and environmental factors.