§ 57. Mr. Thorntonasked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent he has had, or contemplates having, discussions with the Cotton Board regarding an agreed redundancy scheme for the cotton textile industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. J. RodgersMy right hon. Friend has already had several discussions with Lord Rochdale and he is keeping in close touch with the preparation of proposals for the reorganisation and re-equipment of the cotton textile industry. This work is being co-ordinated by a special Development Committee, representing the main sections and both sides of industry, which was set up by the Cotton Board in December. This Committee has prepared a preliminary survey of the likely future size of the industry and, in the light of that, the different sections are34W now engaged on the examination of possible causes of action. They will report to the Development Committee as soon as possible.
My right hon. Friend has emphasised to Lord Rochdale the urgent need for early action and has told him that the Government is anxious to discuss the industry's proposals as soon as they are available and to hear whether direct Government help is asked for.