HC Deb 23 October 1941 vol 374 cc1908-10
62. Mr. Wakefield

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will consider allocating coupons to football, cricket, athletic and recreational clubs to enable them to purchase jerseys, shorts, stockings, boots or shoes for the collective use of their members?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Captain Waterhouse)

No, Sir, I regret that the issue of additional coupons to organisations for the purchase of sports clothing would give rise to so large a variety of fresh demands that it would not be justified on supply grounds. Arrangements are already in existence under which clubs may collect coupons from their supporters and exchange them for coupons of a type which can be tendered in shops in a loose form.

Mr. Hannah

Has anything been done for the athletic needs of the Home Guard?

63. Sir J. Mellor

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will allow women, who have two or more sons serving in the Forces, to obtain 24 ounces of service wool coupon-free in respect of each son so serving?

Captain Waterhouse

No, Sir. The needs of members of the Forces for woollen comforts are adequately met by the comforts issued through the official channels. The present concession to individual knitters goes as far as the supply position permits to preserve personal contacts between serving men and their relations. Any further concession would be open to abuse and would tend to undermine the object of the present regulations, namely to encourage knitters to work for the general pool and not for individuals.

Sir J. Mellor

Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that 24 ounces of wool do not go very far when apportioned among the family?

Captain Waterhouse

I am well aware of that, but if my hon. Friend will look at my answer, he will see that I state that the comforts are adequately supplied from, the general pools of the Services.

Mr. Mander

Is it not open to all members of the family to apply for the 24 ounces?

Captain Waterhouse

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Mander

Including men?

Captain Waterhouse

If they are knitters.

Mr. Burke

Is it not the case that there are large stocks of khaki wool in the hands of manufacturers, and cannot some relaxation be made in order to clear those stocks?

Captain Waterhouse

We must have certain stocks in the country. They are not too large.