§ 15. Air-Commodore Harveyasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give an assurance that, in discussions regarding Japanese competition in the textile trade, he will take all steps to safeguard the British silk-weaving industry.
§ Mr. H. WilsonAs I have stated recently in the House, the whole question of Japanese competition, both in the textile and in other industries, is now being studied, and we will have regard to the interests of all the industries concerned.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyThe right hon. Gentleman has not answered my Question. Is he aware that in the silk industry there is grave concern that silk may be sacrificed to cotton and, in view of the contribution the silk industry is making to exports, will he give the assurance I have requested?
§ Mr. WilsonIf the Question refers to Governmental discussions, I will certainly give the assurance concerned. If it is referring to discussions which may be taking place at the industrial level between representatives of the cotton 1086 industry of this country and the United States, naturally I can give no assurance on their behalf.
§ Squadron-Leader FlemingIn any future discussions with regard to Japanese textile opposition, will the right hon. Gentleman see that the Manchester merchants who engage in West African trade are represented and not merely the Cotton Board?
§ Mr. WilsonSo far as is possible, I will endeavour to collect the views of all in Lancashire and other parts of the country who are concerned with that problem.