§ 62. Lieut.-Colonel WILLEYasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that unrest is developing as a result of the high cost of clothing; that this is only in part due to the high cost of cloth, but that prices of cloth could most effectually be reduced by increased imports; and if, to facilitate this by putting idle machinery on the Continent of Europe to work, he will recommend Governmental assistance to the credits necessary to effect this?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Bridge-man)I am aware of the facts stated in the first part of the question. With regard to the employment of idle machinery in the woollen industry on the Continent of Europe, I understand that business on these lines is already being done, or is in contemplation, without recourse to Government assistance. As at present advised, I am not prepared to recommend any extension of State Credit for this purpose.
§ Lieut.-Colonel WILLEYIs it not the fact that there is no difficulty in banks providing credit for the export of Empire-produced raw material?
§ Sir H. BRITTAINHas the cost of clothing been in any way reduced by the recent efforts of the hon. Member (Mr. Mallaby-Deeley)?