§ 39. Mr. Thorneasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the shortage of black-out material which is now selling at 6s. per yard; and whether he will allow more of it to be made?
§ Mr. DaltonI am aware that there is a shortage of cheap black-out material in some districts. The allocation of cotton for the manufacture of this material has recently been increased. Prices of blackout material are at present controlled under the General Apparel and Cloth (Maximum Prices and Charges) Order, 1943. The utility black-out cloth, of which production has started, will be price-controlled at all stages. The retail price will be substantially less than that quoted in the Question.
§ Mr. ThorneWould my right hon. Friend be prepared to have the Purchase Tax removed so that the material could be made more cheaply?
§ Mr. DaltonThat is a question which could properly be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.