109. Mr. H. Wilsonasked the President of the Board of Trade what representations he received from the trade unions in the clothing industry before he came to his decision to dissolve the Clothing Industry Development Council; and whether he is satisfied that the work which has been proceeding to increase the productivity of the industry will now continue.
§ Mr. H. StraussThe trade unions have emphasised to my right hon. Friend the importance which they attach to a central body which would work for greater efficiency in the clothing industry, and the need for such a body to enjoy the full support and confidence of both sides of the industry if it is to be effective. The unions regret that the Council has not enjoyed this support and confidence and that in these circumstances my right hon. Friend has had to ask Parliament to dissolve it.
179WAs I stated in reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Blackley (Mr. E. Johnson) on 1st December, the unions have agreed to join with representatives of the employers in setting up a new central body on a voluntary basis. I am assured by the representatives of both sides of the industry that it is their intention that this new body shall devote its attention to promoting productivity in the industry as well as to the other matters to which I referred in that reply.