HC Deb 13 November 1952 vol 507 cc1096-7
12. Mr. Dodds

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has yet made a decision about the future of the Clothing Industry Development Council.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I am not yet in a position to make a statement on this matter.

Mr. Dodds

Is it not a shocking state of affairs that the President, month after month for nearly 12 months, has been stating that he is trying to make up his mind about this? Is it really fair to the members of the Council, who have done a good job, and could do better still if they had an assurance? Is the right hon. Gentleman practising another form of Chinese torture to get rid of the members of this Council?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I do not think there is anything shocking, in this.

Mr. Dodds

They think so.

Mr. Thorneycroft

This Council has done a good job of work, and I am in discussion with those concerned to see how this type of work can be carried on in the future.

Mr. Dodds

When shall we get an answer?

Mr. Albu

Will the right hon. Gentleman not agree that the Council has provided a very useful consultative service to industry that has probably had the effect of raising productivity?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I think the consultative work has been one of the most valuable sides of its activities.