§ 24. Mr. WALLACEasked the Minister of Labour whether he will order an inquiry into the cause of the very serious decrease in the production of jute canvas in Dundee, in view of the fact that the lack of adequate supplies of canvas is causing serious dislocation and unemployment in other industries dependent upon this material?
§ Sir R. HORNESome decrease in production may have followed the recent reduction of hours, but matters will, I hope, be adjusted as the industry by degrees adapts itself to the new conditions. If the hon. Member considers that other causes are operative in reducing output I shall be glad to have further details which will be immediately investigated by my Department.
§ Mr. WALLACEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the reduction in output amounts to 33⅓ per cent?
§ Sir R. HORNENo. I have had no particular figure put upon it.