COTTON INDUSTRY (Hansard, 6 April 1948)

§ 29. Mr. Osborne
asked the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the results of the conference which he held on 22nd March with representatives of both sides of the cotton industry; and if he is satisfied with the steps taken to raise the output of cotton yarn to the new target of 20 million lb. a week.

§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)
My meeting on 22nd March with the leaders of both sides of the cotton industry 14 afforded an opportunity for a frank exchange of views on the problems which must be overcome if the production and export targets for the industry are to be met. It was agreed that given the goodwill and co-operation of all concerned ways could be found to achieve the targets for 1948. I am satisfied that the Government are taking all practicable steps to this end.

§ Mr. Osborne
In view of the satisfactory outcome of this conference, will the Prime Minister consider holding similar conferences for both sides of other industries, especially the building industry, where production needs gingering up?

§ The Prime Minister
Wherever necessary, I do so. This is not the first. I have had a number of conferences of this kind.

§ Squadron-Leader Fleming
Did the conference consider the question of the provision of night and day nurseries?

§ The Prime Minister
Yes, that was one of the matters under consideration.

§ Sir W. Smithers
On a point of Order, may I ask you, Sir—there is probaly some good reason for it—why the long-established practice of the Prime Minister's Questions starting at No. 45 is not followed at the present time?

§ Mr. Speaker
There is no point of Order concerned. There were not enough Questions down.

§ Sir W. Smithers
Further to that point of Order, there are 61 Questions; and why should the Prime Minister not retain his honoured place at No. 45?

§ Mr. Speaker
Certain Ministers have precedence, and if we have not reached No. 45, and the Questions to those Ministers, which have been put down have been exhausted, the Prime Minister comes on at No. 20 or No. 21, or at any other time. It is not laid down definitely that he comes on at No. 45 and No. 45 only.

§ Sir W. Smithers
This is the first time this has happened in 24 years.