Wool (Hansard, 25 June 1976)

§ Mr. Lomas
asked the Secretary of State for Industry what help has been given to the woollen textile industry in West Yorkshire during the last six months; and in what form this help has been granted.

Mr. Alan Williams
In the six months ending on 31st May 1976 offers made and accepted under the wool textile scheme and grants paid to firms in the Yorkshire and Humberside Region have been as follows:

Mr. Alan Williams
Since 1st January 1976 my Department has been notified of six closures of wool textile firms. Four of these have closed down and two more are expected to close next month, but this compares with 32 closures of wool textile firms in West Yorkshire last year. I am considering proposals from the Wool Textile EDC for further assistance to the industry from public funds and I hope to be able to respond to them soon.

§ Mr. Lomas
asked the Secretary of State for Industry what is the policy of the Government towards the woollen textile industry; and if he will make a statement.
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Mr. Alan Williams
The contribution made by the wool textile industry to the national economy both through its export performance over many years and the high proportion of domestic demand which it supplies is fully recognised by the Government. This is demonstrated by the industry scheme for wool textiles, announced in 1973, which was the first of its kind and provided £18 million in support of the £80 million of investment which the scheme has generated. The wool textile industry is also one of the sectors included in the Government's industrial strategy. The industry's recent export performance has shown a considerable improvement and employment in the industry has been rising since the beginning of the year.

§ Mr. Lomas
asked the Secretary of State for Industry how much it would cost to make the woollen textile industry viable.

Mr. Alan Williams
The wool textile industry, through the £80 million of investment it is making under the industry scheme for wool textiles, has demonstrated its belief in its own future viability. I share that belief.