§ 36. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the President of the Board of Trade what is proposed to be done with regard to the boot repairing industry; and whether he is aware that great hardship will be caused to small shoemakers and the general public in country districts if small repairing businesses are closed down?
§ Mr. DaltonI have undertaken the control of the boot and shoe repairing industry in order to ensure that the best use is made of existing facilities to meet Service and civilian demands. I am fully aware of the need to make use of the small repairer, especially in country districts, and there is no present intention of closing any repair establishments, whether large or small.
§ Mr. E. WalkdenHas my right hon. Friend also considered the difficulties of obtaining adequate labour to repair boots and shoes in the country districts, and in some of the small towns as well?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir. That is a particular case of the difficulty we are always having to face, but we are trying to do the best we can under the circumstances.
§ Sir Francis FremantleIs the right hon. Gentleman in touch with the Minister of Labour on the question of men being called up from these industries?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir, I am constantly in touch with my right hon. Friend.