HC Deb 30 June 1942 vol 381 cc10-1
19. Mr. Leslie

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will consider the advisability of compelling manufacturers of furniture to give an invoice to retailers stating correctly the nature and quality of material in each article and retailers to ticket every article with a correct description of the material used in its manufacture; and also provide customers with an invoice on the same lines?

Mr. Dalton

I hope very shortly to make an announcement regarding the production of utility furniture at controlled prices, which, I trust, will meet the point my hon. Friend has in mind.

Mr. Leslie

Does not my right hon. Friend think it desirable to consider the steps suggested in my Question in order to protect persons against the rubbish now being put into furniture?

Mr. Dalton

I think that the proposals which I hope shortly to make will more effectively do what my hon. Friend has in mind. His proposal would lead to considerable administrative complications. I think I shall be able to avoid this while enabling the public to get a supply of good furniture of sound construction.

Mr. Woods

How soon is this Order to be made, because this ramp is causing widespread dissatisfaction at the present time, especially among those who have been victims of enemy action?

Mr. Dalton

I am very conscious of that. It will be very shortly, but I cannot say when.

Mr. McEntee

Will it affect in any way the price of second-hand furniture?