HC Deb 15 March 1940 vol 358 cc1517-8W
Mr. Woodburn

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction among Scottish knitwear manufacturers over the inadequate ration of wool and the unemployment likely to result in Clackmannanshire and other counties in Scotland; and whether he will take steps to ensure that the productive capacity of this industry is made use of, especially in view of its high value in export trade?

Mr. Burgin

Some restriction in the issue of wool for manufacture for civilian purposes has been found necessary, but the supplies which can be made available are distributed equitably among the firms in the industry, including the Scottish knit-wear manufacturers, under a rationing scheme. As regards exports,an undertaking has been given to make available 125 lbs. of wool in replacement of each 100 lbs. of wool used in the production of materials, including knitted goods, which are exported before the end of April next.