HC Deb 18 February 1941 vol 369 cc2-3
4. Mr. Sutcliffe

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he proposes to take to review the whole conditions of man-power supply in the Lancashire region and the potential demand of the munition works; and whether for this purpose the Government will assist the cotton industry with expert guidance and advice from the start?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Assheton)

I have been asked to reply. The man-power requirements for the war industries are under constant review, and it is clear that, so far as the Lancashire region is concerned, the munitions factories there can only be satisfactorily manned if a substantial contribution is made by the other industries in the region. The Government propose to put to industries proposals which will ensure the orderly release of workers as and when they are required for war employment. The cotton industry's position in the Lancashire region is, of course, of special importance in this respect, and I understand that my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade will give the industry all possible guidance and advice in the matter.

Mr. Sutcliffe

Will my hon. Friend undertake not to cut down supplies destined for the export trade or to remove the workers on those supplies; and will he do all in his power to facilitate an increase in the export trade of cotton goods?

Mr. Assheton

That is really mainly a matter for the Ministry of Supply.

Mr. Cary

Is it the intention to spread production over as great a number of mills as possible or to concentrate production in a limited number of the mills only?

Mr. Assheton

That will emerge when my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade puts his proposals to the industry.

Mr. Rhys Davies

Will the Department take great care not to destroy the possibilities of the future of this great export trade?

Mr. Assheton

As a Lancashire man, I will do anything I can in that direction.