§ 26. Mr. Lipsonasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can reduce the number of coupons to be surrendered for uniforms by members of the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Girls Training Corps and boy and girl cadets of the St. John Ambulance Brigade?
§ Mr. DaltonNo, Sir. As I have explained in answer to previous Questions on this subject, I regret that, owing to the stringency of supplies, I cannot see my way to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion.
§ Mr. LipsonIn view of the work that these organisations are doing and the fact that there are other organisations the Members of which do not surrender coupons, will my right hon. Friend make some concession as they feel that they are being unfairly treated?
§ Mr. DaltonI have answered Questions on this before and have gone into it most carefully. The distinction we draw is between those organisations recognised by the Service Departments and those which are voluntary. It is not possible to go further at present and I hope my hon. Friend will not press me in view of the statement I made earlier on rationing. It is difficult to give concessions beyond the basic ration.
Viscountess AstorWill the right hon. Gentleman make it certain that people bringing clothing into this country realise that they have to have coupons? I would like to have an answer.
§ Mr. DaltonI should be surprised to hear that any responsible citizen was ignorant of the Regulations.