HC Deb 27 February 1947 vol 433 cc2253-4
14. Captain John Crowder

asked the President of the Board of Trade what are the cotton allocations for export for the first period of 1947.

Sir S. Cripps

The total quantity of cotton yarn allocated for the production of export goods in the first period of 1947 is 15,000 tons, a reduction of about 40 per cent. on the allocation for the previous period. Owing to the heavy load of orders already in the industry, which has been intensified by the present disturbances of production, the issue of this allocation must be delayed, for the time being. As has already been announced, the system under which the export allocation is administered is being altered to take account of the general production position in the cotton industry and of the country's need for exports to hard currency markets. Details of the new system will, I hope, be announced shortly.

Captain Crowder

Can the Minister say whether manufacturers and retailers have previously had all this information? Do they know the position?

Sir S. Cripps

I think they do, but I cannot answer that Question without notice.

Mr. Sutcliffe

Is the President of the Board of Trade aware that this is one of the very serious aspects of production, both for home and export trade?

Sir S. Cripps

indicated assent.