The heald control system claimed comprises a statically-mounted heald hook retention device and a reciprocating heald hook. The device and the heald hook have co-operating latch means which are relatively movable to cause selective retention of the heald hook at a predetermined position along the path of travel. There are also selectively actuable electrostrictive motive means for causing relative movement between the co-operating latch means. A pin engages an aperture in the hook. Alternative embodiments are also claimed. IPC D03C.