§ 33. Mr. Bensonasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the limitation of the production of foot- wear, he will take steps to see that priority is given to utilitarian rather than fashion able types, and particularly to children's footwear?
§ Mr. LytteltonYes, Sir. My Department is in close touch with the Ministry of Supply, who are responsible for allocating leather to the footwear industry, and the question of making the best possible use of the available raw material to produce serviceable footwear is receiving urgent attention. Under the scheme for the concentration of production of boots and shoes now under discussion with the trade, the special need for children's footwear has been borne in mind.
§ Mr. BensonHas any allocation been decided upon?
§ Mr. LytteltonIt has been agreed with the trade that the production of boys' 686 and girls' boots and shoes shall remain as in 1940.
§ Mr. SummersIs my right hon. Friend aware that education authorities are very concerned about the prospect of supplies of children's boots and shoes?
§ Mr. LytteltonYes, Sir.