HC Deb 01 May 1934 vol 289 cc125-6
10. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that further cotton-manufacturing concerns are closing down; and if he has anything yet to report of the methods which it is proposed to institute to prevent the continuing depression of the cotton trade which will result in that part of Lancashire becoming derelict?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)

I am very conscious of the continued difficulties of the cotton industry, and I am following with close interest the progress of the efforts which are now being made by certain organisations in Lancashire with a view to improving the present situation.

Mr. CHORLTON

When does the right hon. Gentleman hope to make some announcement of what he and his Department are doing for Lancashire in connection with this matter?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am afraid that I cannot mention any date at the present moment.

Mr. THORP

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that three mills have closed down in Nelson and Colne since the General Election and that nearly one-third of the operatives are still out of employment; and will he give some indication when the situation in Lancashire is likely to be dealt with?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am sure that my hon. and learned Friend realises that it is impossible to deal with all these problems by way of one solution. We are co-operating and are always ready to co-operate with the industry itself, as well as taking steps ourselves.

Mr. THORP

In view of that answer, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.

23. Lieut. - Colonel Sir WALTER SMILES

asked the President of the Board of Trade what was the percentage of the United Kingdom for the years 1932, 1933, and 1934 of the total imports of cotton piece goods into the Argentine Republic; and how does this figure compare with Japanese cotton piece goods imported into the Argentine for the same years?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Imports of cotton piece goods into the Argentine Republic in 1932 amounted to 25,121 metric tons, of which 9,984 metric tons or 39.7 per cent. were imported from the United Kingdom and 1,754 metric tons or 7.0 per cent. from Japan. Similar information for any later period is not yet available.