§ 47. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the President of the Board of Trade what is the present position of the negotiations between representatives of the Lancashire and Japanese textile industry; and whether, in case of failure, the Government propose to take action for the protection of our industry?
§ Dr. BURGINAs regards the present position of the negotiations between the representatives of the Lancashire and Japanese cotton and rayon industries, I have nothing to add to the statement which appeared in the Press after the meetings last week. It would be premature and inappropriate at the present stage to discuss the eventuality suggested in the second part of the question.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLECan my hon. Friend give the House any indication of when he is prepared to make such a statement?
§ Dr. BURGINI think that must be a matter for my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade to deal with himself, but, as the House knows perfectly well, there will be no delay in this matter, and it is most inadvisable to press further at the present moment.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLEDoes my hon. Friend realise the position of Lancashire at present and the necessity of having some definite statement?
§ Dr. BURGINAbsolutely.
§ Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSCan my hon. Friend say whether silk is included in these discussions?
§ Dr. BURGINAs I was dealing with cotton and rayon, the answer, I think, is obvious.