§ 59. Mr. O'GRADYasked whether there is any intention to abandon the ordering from contractors of hand-sewn boots for use in the British Army?
§ Mr. FORSTERThere is no present intention of ordering further supplies of hand-sewn boots for the use of the British Army; but hand-sewn boot firms in this country have been included in the list of firms requisitioned to supply Italian boots, to which hand-sewn labour can be applied.
§ Mr. O'GRADYIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the Honourable Company of Cordwainers are at present teaching injured and maimed soldiers the art of hand-sewn bootmaking; having regard to that fact, is it not incongruous that these men should be taught that trade and yet hand-sewn boots should be discarded for use by British troops?
§ Mr. FORSTERNo, Sir, that does not at all follow, because there may be greater openings for hand-sewn operatives in civilian trade.