§ 32. Mr. Bellengerasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what steps are being taken by His Majesty's Government to organise the various interests in the linen trade with regard to overseas exports?
§ Mr. R. S. HudsonI paid a visit to Belfast on 4th February for the express purpose of discussing this subject with the Council of the Irish Linen Merchants' Association, and other interests in the linen industry. I understand that the question is being actively pursued by the interests concerned.
§ Mr. BellengerMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman what further steps he proposes to take with regard to this matter? For instance, will it form part of the discussions which are to take place between himself and his right hon. Friend and the interests in Germany next month?
§ Mr. HudsonNo, Sir. I think it should be made clear in regard to the statements which have been issued that the discussions next month in Germany are going to be between the industries concerned. I certainly hope that in due course, if the linen industry can find some means of completing its organisation, it will be included among the industries which discuss matters with their opposite numbers in Germany.