§ 4. Mr. Burkeasked the President of the Board of Trade if he has considered the statement and resolution from the Cotton Board suggesting changes in the structure of the cotton industry on the lines of larger units; and if he can make a statement indicative of Government policy on the matter.
§ Mr. DaltonI have discussed the statement and resolution to which my hon. Friend refers, with the chairman of the Cotton Board, and I agreed with him that they should be published. I note with interest that the Cotton Board Committee recognise the desirability, with a view to greater efficiency, of larger units in the cotton industry, but I also note that they are strongly opposed to legal compulsion to achieve this object.
§ Mr. BurkeIs my right hon. Friend aware that if the cotton industry is to get back to anything like its former strength drastic and far-reaching proposals will be required?
§ Captain PrescottIn view of the vital importance of this matter, will the right hon. Gentleman make representations to the appropriate quarters, and have an early day set aside for a Debate on the whole subject?
§ Mr. DaltonIt is not for me to indicate that, but I should be glad of such an opportunity later.
§ Mr. Ellis SmithIs it not a fact that my right hon. Friend has now received reports from several representative organisations? If so, have they been considered and has not the time arrived when this Department should take the initiative, and make recommendations which can be considered by the whole industry?
§ Mr. DaltonI have received a number of representations, some of which take the form of saying that they do not want legal intervention in these matters. I am anxious to carry the various sections of the industry with me in any proposals I put up.
§ Mr. SutcliffeWill the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that representatives of the industry will be fully consulted before any final decision is made?
§ Mr. DaltonWe are in constant touch with them.