The Cotton Yarn
The Bank of England has initiated a study of the clothing industry to look closely at its finances and its organisation. It's argued that the troubles of the clothing industry are those of British industry, writ large. Plant, buildings and equipment are outdated; production methods compare unfavourably with those of foreign competitors; and it's said deliveries are unreliable and the quality of management is poor.
On the other hand, company owners argue that the industry has, in the last few years, gone through a period of modernisation and streamlining. It is now an industry ready to compete. However, even now, representatives of the textile industry are asking for greater protection against imports.
James Bellini reports from Lancashire.
Producer JAMES BUTLER Editor PAUL ELLIS