HC Deb 08 April 1946 vol 421 c1629
40. Sir W. Smithers

asked the President of the Board of Trade why, in view of the fact that there is abundance of wool in Yorkshire, Mr. P. Moss was not afforded facilities to export textiles from Britain, of which particulars have been sent to him.

Mr. Marquand

There is no shortage of raw wool, but there is a shortage of wool yarn and piece goods owing to insufficient labour. It is, therefore, necessary to control the export of these goods both in order to conserve supplies at home and to ensure that markets dependent upon us obtain essential supplies. South Africa is getting considerable quantities of wool piece goods from this country, but it is unfortunately not possible to satisfy all her requirements.

Sir W. Smithers

In view of the importance to this country of the export trade, will the hon. Gentleman do all in his power to remove restrictions and to cut out all these "red tape" licences and other stoppages which impede the export trade?

Mr. Marquand

I hope that hon. Members will do all in their power to induce workers to return to the spinning sections of this industry.

Mr. Drayson

Will the hon. Gentleman consider consulting with his colleagues to see whether it is not possible to use machinery in Germany, which is now idle, to do the necessary spinning on commission for this country?

Mr. Marquand

That is under active consideration.