Government Flax Factories

Oral Answers to Questions — Trade and Commerce – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 28 November 1957.

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Photo of Mr George Jeger Mr George Jeger , Goole 12:00, 28 November 1957

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has now disposed of all the Government flax mills; how many of the factory premises are now being used; and how many are unoccupied and idle.

Photo of Mr David Eccles Mr David Eccles , Chippenham

Of the ten Government flax factories in operation when it was decided to discontinue the Home Flax Scheme nine have been closed and the tenth will close in March next. Of the nine factories five have been sold, one has been sold subject to completion of contract, and negotiations are proceeding for the sale of the other three.

Photo of Mr George Jeger Mr George Jeger , Goole

Will the right hon. Gentleman take all possible steps to ensure that the factories are put into use again so that local people do not remain unemployed after he has closed them?

Photo of Mr David Eccles Mr David Eccles , Chippenham

Yes, Sir. I consider that when selling them.