HC Deb 29 October 1957 vol 575 cc23-4
41. Miss Burton

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the urgent need to clarify the descriptions given to cloths and clothes made from more than one fibre; and what action he proposes to take in the matter.

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

The general use of agreed terms in describing the fibre content of clothes and cloth on sale to the public would be helpful to some purchasers. The best way of achieving this is by agreement between the manufacturing, trading and other interests concerned.

Miss Burton

Is the Minister aware that my information seems to be more forthcoming than his? I gather that suggestions made from this side of the House are to be implemented in the future. Does he agree that the proposed Free Trade Area makes such clarification urgent in order that Continental cloth entering this country will have to conform to the description and in order to prevent unfair competition with our own industry?

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

I think the hon. Lady must be overlooking the protection already given by the Merchandise Marks Act.