HC Deb 15 November 1944 vol 404 cc1979-80W
Mr. Hammersley

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that British textile machinists are unable to quote a firm price for textile machinery, state a definite delivery date or indicate when it will be possible to commence production of any cotton spinning or weaving machinery; if, in the light of these facts, he has given consideration to the extreme difficulty of mechanical re-equipment by the cotton trade; and what action he proposes to take.

Mr. Dalton

I have recently been able, to increase the allocation of iron and steel for the manufacture of textile machinery, but dates and terms of delivery must necessarily remain uncertain so long as the manufacturers continue, to so great an extent as at present, engaged on war work rather than peace-time production.

Mr. Sutcliffe

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he can make any statement about the resumption of manufacture of plants urgently needed by the textile industry, such as boilers, turbines, conveyors, cranes and electrical motor switchgear.

Mr. Dalton

The plant referred to is being produced in considerable quantities, and increased supplies will become available to the textile industries as war demands are reduced.