§ Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that negotiations have been proceeding between Messrs. H. C. Pateson, Limited, Blackrod Mill, Horwich Junction, Bolton, and his Department, with a view to re-opening the mill for the last four months, without avail; that this is the only industrial undertaking in the urban district of Blackrod with 3,000 inhabitants where unemployment is increasing; that there is enough labour available but that the Ministry of Fuel and Power will not release Mr. Fielding, the foreman, who opted for colliery work two years ago and who must do the preparatory work for re-opening the mill; and if he will take steps to secure the release of this key man.
§ Mr. BelcherI am aware of the negotiations, but it has not so far been decided to license these looms owing to the continuing shortage of cotton yarn. In reply to the second part of the Question, unemployment in the Horwich area, in which Blackrod is included, has -decreased substantially between November, 1945. and January, 1946. It is hoped to re-open Blackrod Mill shortly408W and in this connection, as my hon. Friend has already been informed in correspondence, the Board of Trade is in touch with the Ministry of Labour about the possibility of releasing Mr. N. Fielding from coal-mining to assist with the necessary preparatory work.