asked the President of the Board of Trade if the Cotton Import Committee, set up under the chairmanship of Sir Richard Hopkins, has yet reported to him on the question how, in the current foreign exchange position, cotton can best be supplied to the United Kingdom cotton industry on the most advantageous terms as to quality and price.

Yes. The Committee's report, which is unanimous, was signed at the end of last week and is receiving urgent consideration by the Government. It will be published as soon as possible, and my noble Friend, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and I hope to make an early announcement about the Government's intentions with regard to the recommendations which it contains.