QUEST FOR WOOL

Auckland Star, Volume LXXV, Issue 284, 30 November 1944, Page 3

QUEST FOR WOOL

FRANCE AND BELGIUM TEXTILE PLANTS AVAILABLE (Special Correspondent) Rec. 10 a.m. BRADFORD, Nov. 23. The previously reported arrival In Bradford of official French and Belgian delegations to negotiate wool purchases for their respective countries is regarded, by the trade here as one of the most important wool trade developments of the war. The precise details of their requirements are being kept secret, as trade is on a Government basis, but commercial circles usually well informed believe the wool tonnage involved will be substantial. The chief significance to the wool world lies not only in the immediate demand, but in the fact that the Continental door is to reopen. Before the war France and Belgium were second only to Britain among the wool consuming nations of Europe, and it is chiefly because ihey have been overrun by Germany that Dominion wool supplies have accumulated. The news that the wool machinery of these countries is in a workable condition is warmly welcomed here, and is also good news for the wool-growing Dominions. It means the rate of liquidation of the accumulated wool will be more rapid than could have been possible had this machinery been destroyed. Desirable Development From the viewpoint of the manufacturing countries it means that mills which expected that a large part of their output would be needed to provide for these liberated countries will now be able io divert their production in other essential directions, knowing that France and Belgium can satisfy most of their own requirements if given the raw material. In the long-term interests of wool this is a very desirable development, as it will tend to obviate restricted production and ensure that wool goods will be available and widely spread at the earliest possible moment. In days when wool must begin to pay increased regard to competing fibres, this is no small matter. The Continental delegations confirm the Bradford trade belief that the French and Belgian people have been so long restricted to synthetic fibre clothing thrt they are more than ever au:;icus for wool. British Ration Prospects Before leaving France, M. Dubrulle, leader of the French delegation, received a deputation of French textile workers whose message to Britain v as: "For goodness sake, send us woui." There is every reason to believe that this demand will soon be satisfied. Meanwhile the news that these areas of the Continent may be largely independent of British wool texjile production has revived trade suggestions that Britain's home clothing ration should be increased from Its present modest level.