HC Deb 24 July 1956 vol 557 c193
24. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action he has taken to assist the pottery industry since short-time working commenced and discharges were made; what representations have been made to him or letters received from the trade unions and manufacturers' organisations; and what reply has been made and what action is proposed.

Mr. Walker-Smith

My right hon. Friend visited Stoke-on-Trent in January and had a very full discussion with both sides of the industry. Since then he has received periodical reports on the situation from the British Pottery Manufacturers' Federation, and officials of the Board met the Federation's Export Promotion Committee in Stoke-on-Trent on 11th July to discuss the latest report.

We are by the aid of these reports and others keeping a close watch on the situation in the industry, and the Board's services are available to give all possible assistance to the industry in its efforts to take advantage of every export opportunity that presents itself.

Mr. Ellis Smith

But has his right hon. Friend reported to the Parliamentary Secretary what the manufacturers told him?

Mr. Walker-Smith

My right hon. Friend does not report to me in that sense, but we seek to advance these matters in full co-operation.