HC Deb 22 May 1973 vol 857 cc46-7W
Mr. Rost

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what consideration he has given to the future prospects of the carpet industry.

Mr. Chataway

The carpet industry has experienced encouraging growth in recent years and has expanded its exports. It has considerable prospects and I have commissioned a study of the industry's potential markets, in Europe and elsewhere, and of the United Kingdom industry's capacity to realise its potential. The study will be carried out, with the support of the industry, by P.A. Management Consultants Ltd., and is expected to take about six months to complete. I have arranged for a copy of the terms of reference to be put in the Library of the House.