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Industrial Development (Advice)

Volume 466: debated on Wednesday 29 June 1949

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15.

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will seek the advice of the Council of Industrial Design and other industrial advisory bodies in the United Kingdom to assist those engaged in the development of secondary industries in the Colonies in order to improve the design and marketability of their products; and whether, wherever practicable, local facilities will be provided for training suitable personnel in the management of such enterprises.

It is common practice to obtain expert advice on technical questions affecting the Colonies and I should certainly consider taking such advice on any specific question on the design and marketability of articles made in the Colonies that may arise. As regards the second part of the Question, it is the general policy to provide or encourage facilities for training the people of the Colonies to take an increasing share in the operation of secondary industries.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that makers of West African furniture have not had the benefit of the advice on utility furniture from the Council of Industrial Design and that they have lost certain markets for furniture in this country?

I am most anxious that they should have the benefit of the best advice we can obtain for them. The suggestion in the Question is very much in our mind.