§ Mr. Woolmerasked the Secretary of State for Industry when an assessment of the second stage of the wool textile industry scheme is to be completed; and if he will institute a further assessment of the longer-term productivity benefits to the wool textile industry of the first stage, in view of the continuing threats to the viability of the industry.
§ Mr. David MitchellThe assessment of the second stage of the wool textile industry scheme is expected to be completed during 1980. The report will review developments, including changes in productivity, in the wool textile industry since the assessment of the first stage of the scheme.
I see no call at present to institute a further assessment of the productivity effects of the first stage of the scheme. However, the Wool Textile Economic Development Committee is considering, for its work programme for 1980, initiating some surveys of productivity within the industry in co-operation with the International Wool Secretariat which could be helpful to firms in their efforts to cope with international competition.