§ 34. Mr. Reader Harrisasked the President of the Board of Trade if His Majesty's Government will make an immediate statement on the textile trade to counteract the loss of confidence and unemployment which has arisen in this trade.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftI am aware that there has been a slackening of demand for textiles and some other commodities one cause of which was the stocking up by consumers which took place last autumn and earlier this year. The position is being closely watched and will be considered in the context of general economic policy.
§ Mr. HarrisCan the President of the Board of Trade say whether there is any real likelihood of a drop in prices, or whether these prices will continue, having regard to the cost of raw materials?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftI have no ambition to seek to guide the buying public by speculating on future prices.