HC Deb 25 February 1930 vol 235 c2023
12. Captain AUSTIN HUDSON

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether there are any plans in his Department for the rationalisation of the Northampton footwear industry?

Mr. THOMAS

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer given yesterday by my hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to the question addressed to him on this subject by the hon. Member for Grimsby (Mr. Womersley).

Captain HUDSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Duchy advocated rationalisation as a cure for the troubles of the footwear industry, and, if he has no plans, what does he intend doing about it?

Mr. THOMAS

I myself saw the representatives of this industry and heard the case presented and discussed many matters affecting the industry with them.

Mr. L'ESTRANGE MALONE

Is the right Ion. Gentleman aware that many people in the boot industry think it very necessary to start considering the future, and would it not have been a good thing if coal cotton, and other industries had started thinking before they got into their present parlous condition?