HC Deb 04 July 1928 vol 219 cc1374-5
50. Mr. MALONE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the shortage of leather; and whether he will consider the appointment of an inquiry into the reasons for the shortage and consequent increased prices now being charged for leather?

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave him on 15th May last.

Mr. MALONE

Does not the hon. Gentleman know that there is very grave apprehension among certain manufacturers in the boot trade that the big five in America are holding up supplies, and, in view of the effect on trade and employment in this country, does he not think his Department ought to inquire into the matter?

Mr. WILLIAMS

In my previous answer, I pointed out that the difficulty arose owing to the fact that there is a decline in the slaughtering of animals in many countries, and the only suggestion I can make is that people should eat more meat.