§ Mr. Rostasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what consideration he has given to the future prospects of the carpet industry.
§ Mr. ChatawayThe 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 47W 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.