HC Deb 21 May 1908 vol 189 cc467-8
MR. J. DEVLIN (Belfast, W.)

To ask the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to depression in the linen trade in Lurgan, every branch of which is affected, and to the fact that the artisans are leaving the town; and whether, in view of this state of affairs and of the depression in the linen trade in Belfast, he will appoint a Commission to inquire into the whole position of the linen trade in the North of Ireland.

(Answered by Mr. Churchill.) There has been depression in the textile trade in Lurgan, with consequent distress. I understand, however, that the migration of operatives from the town is not beyond what is usual at this season of the year. The position of this industry in the North of Ireland is being carefully watched by the Department, but I am not prepared, as at present advised, to appoint a special Commission.