15. Mr. Thorneycroftasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he 642 is aware of the large increase in the incidence of verminous heads, chiefly due to the fact that hairdressers throughout the country have for some time been unable to carry out cleansing and shampooing treatment owing to the shortage of towels; and will he, in the interest of public health, cause towels to be released to hairdressers for the purpose?
§ Mr. DaltonNo, Sir. I have no reason to think that the shortage of towels has resulted in an increase in the condition to which my hon. Friend refers.
Mr. ThorneycroftIs the right hon. Gentleman aware the trade was approached some time ago by public authorities throughout the country to assist in this matter, and as towels are tools, will he consider it in that light?
§ Mr. DaltonI am informed that the Hairdressers' Guild, who have been in touch with the Ministry of Health on the matter, have not said that in their view this unfortunate condition is due to a shortage of towels.
§ Mr. GallacherWill the Minister consider issuing special coupons for towels, particularly for housewives?
§ Mr. DaltonThat is another question, to which I have previously given an answer.
§ Mr. GallacherI know, but it was not a good answer.