HC Deb 26 March 1959 vol 602 c169W
Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the President of the Board of Trade what applications he has received recently for certification marks from companies purporting to manufacture Harris Tweed; and how many such applications or marks he has approved.

Mr. J. Rodgers

None.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the President of the Board of Trade what was the total estimated production of orb-certification-marked Harris Tweed in 1958; and how much of this was exported to dollar markets.

Mr. J. Rodgers

According to the Harris Tweed Association, the production of cloth stamped with the Orb-certification mark in 1958 was 4,349,000 yards. Estimates of exports to dollar markets have not yet been made.

Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will consult with the various interests in the Harris Tweed industry in the Outer Hebrides with a view to encouraging and assisting the revival of this industry in the Isle of Harris.

Mr. J. Rodgers

If the industry think that discussions with the Board of Trade would help them. I am sure my right hon. Friend will be glad to arrange this.