§ Sir W. Smithersasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that, in view of the high wages that are being offered by the making-up trade in the cotton and wool manufacturing districts, the production side of the industry is unable to secure adequate labour; and if he will take steps to encourage the production of cloth which is the first necessity.
§ Sir S. CrippsI am aware of the shortage of labour in the textile industry and every effort is being made to increase its labour force. I can readily give the hon. Member an assurance that all possible steps will be taken to encourage the production of cloth, but for the most part the 103W textile industry does not compete directly with the making-up trade for operatives. The question of wage rates in any industry is a matter to be settled between the two sides.