WOOLLEN GOODS

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIX, Issue 134, 8 June 1945, Page 6

WOOLLEN GOODS

PROSPECTS IN BRITAIN (Special P.A. Correspondent.) LONDON, June 7. Enthusiasm over the success of the recent wool conference is the predominant feling among the New Zealand delegation. The members were also greatly impressed at the feeling of optimism among manufacturers at the future prospects for wool. The delegation, which comprises Messrs. G. A. Duncan (chairman), E. L. Greensmith, N. R. Jameson, W. Horrobin, H. M. Christie, C. G. Trotter, A. Smith, and W. M. Wilson, visited Bradford at the invitation of the British Wool Federation and wool textile interests. They were surprised to find that, because of the'shortage of labour, between 50 to 60 per cent, of the machinery in the wool textile industry is at present standing idle. It has. however, been maintained in excellent condition, and, with the gradual return of labour, which has been given high priority by the authorities, it represents an enormous potential manufacturing capacity. PRESERVATION OF WOOL. In the course of their visit to the mills, the IMew Zealanders were interested to find that wool which had been stored for two and three years had not suffered appreciable deterioration. The operatives who are processing this stored wool declared it opened up in good condition, with less deterioration than had been expected. • The delegates also praised the work being carried out by the Wool Industries Research Association at Torridon, and commented particularly upon the finer wool fabrics which are being produced as the result of advanced methods and the application of new non-shrinkable processes. It is felt that there will undoubtedly, be a wider appeal in the future for certain types of wool fabrics in competition with synthetic materials. The delegates also met the French textile mission now visiting Britain and discussed the resumption of France purchasing wool direct from the Dominions. The immediate needs of France have been met from supplies made available from United Kingdom storks and the British-owned stockpile in the United. States. The New Zealanders were gratified to learn that substantial quantities of wool have already reached both France and Belgium, and that production has recommenced. Mills both in France and Belgium suffered comparatively little from enemy action and the labour force is reasonably intact. "ELIJAH." The famous oratorio, "Elijah," to be given In the Town Hall tomorrow evening by tne Royal Wellington Choral Union under the direction of Mr. Stanley Oliver, promises to rival some of the best performances the society has yet given. An exceptionally strong cast of soloists has been engaged. They are headed by Mr. Raymond Beatty, the Australian baritone, who will be ably supported by Miss Dora Drake, soprano, of Dunedin; Miss Mary Pratt, contralto, also of Dunedin: and Mr. Joseph Battersby, tenor, of Hamilton. The final rehearsal will take place at the Town Hall at 7.30 tonight. .' The doors will open at 7.15 tomorrow, and the performance will conclude about 10.20. The box plan is at the D.I.C. Particulars of the suspension of railway services on the Waterloo line are | advertised in this issue.