HC Deb 26 June 1941 vol 372 cc1104-5
Mr. T. Smith

(by Private Notice) asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware of the proposal to close food shops in Bolton for the whole of the coming week on the occasion of the Bolton wakes and of the indignation aroused locally in view of the fact that workers who have responded to the Government's appeal to forego their holidays will be remaining in Bolton this year during Wakes Week, and, anticipating that they and their families will have difficulty in obtaining food supplies, what action he proposes to take?

Major Lloyd George

My attention has been drawn to the circumstances to which my hon. Friend refers. I understand that the Bolton Chamber of Trade has recommended the special closing of shops on Monday and Tuesday only and I hope that this recommendation will be accepted by food traders generally. It will afford an opportunity of relaxation for shop assistants badly in need of it but will avoid the inconvenience to the public resulting from the closing of food shops for the whole week. Communications have been sent to the bodies representative of the trades concerned, and I have no doubt that they will receive a satisfactory response.

Mr. Rhys Davies

It is not true, therefore, to suggest that the Bolton shops are going to be closed for a week?

Major Lloyd George

I very much hope that they will respond favourably to the representations made, as I think they will.

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