Berwickshire, Roxburgh & Selkirk MP Michael Moore will press Ministers to provide Borders textile firms with the financial and material support they need on Wednesday afternoon after he was able to secure a Parliamentary debate on the issue.

Mr Moore has raised the difficulties that the Borders textiles industry has experienced as a consequence of the economic downturn with Ministers on a number of occasions in recent months. Earlier this year, he met with Ian Lucas MP, Minister of State for Textiles, to underline the importance of the textiles industry to the Borders economy and call attention to the urgent need for Government support for the sector.Michael Moore MP: Berwickshire, Roxburgh & Selkirk

Mr Moore warned Ministers again of the risks of job losses across the sector from the floor of the House of Commons before the start of the summer recess, drawing particular attention to the difficulties that the cashmere industry have had in obtaining export credit insurance and the need for additional support for skills training programmes.

Commenting in advance of the debate, Mr Moore said:

‘With statistics revealing that the value of Scottish textiles exports has fallen by over 10% in recent months, Ministers must realise that a failure to take action now could result in significant damage to one of the few remaining world-class Scottish industries.

‘Despite having full order books, many Borders firms have experienced severe difficulties in securing export insurance and essential credit facilities on reasonable terms. Funding for training and skills development has also come under severe pressure as a consequence of the economic downturn.

‘In the debate on Wednesday I will be urging Ministers to ensure that the Borders’ many world class textiles companies receive all the support they need to remain economically viable.’

Notes:

Mr Moore’s debate on Government support for the textile industry will take place at 4 pm on Wednesday 21 October in Westminster Hall.