§ 61. Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Minister of Supply what further representations he has received from the parties concerned in favour of utilising flock-stuffing materials for bedding produced in this country instead of imported coir fibre; and will he again give favourable consideration to the request, in view of the disastrous position of local industries and consequent unemployment?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonSympathetic consideration has been given to the further representations which have been received from the trade in regard to this matter, but while there are ample supplies of coir fibre available, I feel bound to continue to use this material, having regard to the considered opinion of the War Office medical authorities that it is the most hygienic and suitable for the purpose under Service conditions. If, however, the supply of coir fibre should cease to be available, there would be no objection to the use of flock filling.
§ Mr. DaviesWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that unemployment is not being reduced by the policy which he is adopting?
§ Mr. MorrisonI think my hon. Friend will see that the matter is primarily one for the War Office, who use this material. Their medical advisers have given definite advice, and I do not see how I can very well go over their heads as long as the supply is available.
§ Mr. Hubert BeaumontWill the right hon. Gentleman take into a count the fact that other Government Departments have accepted this mat[...]al?
§ Mr. MorrisonThat may be so, but the problem for me remains as I have stated.