HC Deb 21 October 1946 vol 427 c288W
96. Mr. Harrison

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take the necessary steps to arrest the falling supplies of yarn to the lace curtain industry and arrange for an increased supply so that the industry can proceed with its rehabilitation plans which have been postponed for such a time that the future of the industry is threatened.

Sir S. Cripps

The allocation of yarn to the lace curtain industry has been increased from the average level of 400 tons per quarter during 1945 to the present level of 550 tons per quarter. I am fully aware, however, that now that workers are returning the industry badly needs more yarn, and this will be borne in mind in making future allocations. In order to meet the immediate difficulty, arrangements have been made for some cotton yarn to be spun in Germany, and the first consignment of this is now ready for delivery.