HC Deb 04 May 1954 vol 527 cc176-7
9. Dr. Bronghton

asked the President of the Board of Trade for what purpose the Minister of State, Board of Trade, made an official visit to woollen textile mills in the West Riding of Yorkshire on 21st April, 1954.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

This visit was an informal one, undertaken in order to enable the Minister to see some of the processes, and to meet leading personalities, in this very important exporting industry.

Dr. Broughton

Will the President say what opinion was expressed to him by his right hon. Friend, after the visit, on the state of health of this industry which for generations has been, and still is, of vital importance to the economy of the country?

Mr. Thorneycroft

My right hon. Friend informed me that he was much impressed by the vigorous and enterprising outlook of the industry concerned.