§ 63. Mr. P. WILLIAMSasked the Secretary of State for War what stock of blankets is now held by the War Office, and why is the stock not put on the market in order to increase the supply of blankets available during the coming winter?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe present stock of new blankets is about 31 millions, and our requirements approximate to that amount.. Stocks are at present being sorted and as the Army is further reduced all blankets in excess of requirements are being disposed of.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSMay I ask if the right hon. Gentleman can take steps to make these blankets available for working women at the price the Government arc getting for them without any intermediate profit?
§ Mr. HAYDAYMay I ask whether the local authorities may send in a requisition in order that they may open markets for the purpose of bringing the blankets within reach of the people?
§ Mr. FORSTERAs the House is aware, all the arrangements for the actual sale of surplus material are conducted by the 1317 Disposal Board of the Ministry of Munitions, and perhaps hon. Members would communicate with the Ministry of Munitions on the subject.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these blankets are being sold in lots of fifty at 8s. 6d. each and when they reach working people they are very much more?