§ 12. Mr. HANNONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps, if any, are being taken to promote the welfare of the British West Indian Sea Island cotton industry; whether any endeavour has been made to rationalise the industry by means of co-operation; in what circumstances was the West Indian Sea Island Cotton Association recently formed in the West Indies, and whether it is represented in England, and, if so, by what body?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERA West Indian Sea Island Cotton Association was formed at a conference of producers in November, 1933, to promote the general interests of the industry. At the same time measures were agreed upon which have since been put into operation by the various Colonies concerned for the rationalisation of the industry by the regulation of exports. An advisory committee has been set up to superintend and advise upon the work of the association in this country. A distinctive trade mark is being registered, and the committee has been active in stimulating interest in Sea Island cotton products, with the result that several enterprising manufacturing firms in this country have undertaken the manufacture of Sea Island cotton goods, and have been increasingly successful in developing the market for them.
§ Mr. HANNONWhile thanking my right hon. Friend, may I ask whether we are to understand that the Colonial Office are prepared to help this industry in any way possible?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERWe have been in it from the start, and I have been in touch not only with the producers but with the firms, and the result has been satisfactory.