HC Deb 19 January 1943 vol 386 cc5-6
4. Mrs. Cazalet Keir

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the widespread and growing feeling of injustice throughout the National Association of Girls' Training Corps, he will reconsider his decision regarding the granting of some assistance, either by coupons or financial help, towards providing members of the various units with uniform?

Mr. Dalton

As I have explained in answer to previous Questions on this subject, I regret that, in view of the increasing stringency of supplies, I cannot justify a coupon concession to these organisations. The question of financial help is one for my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Education.

Mrs. Keir

In view of the fact that the boy cadets get their uniforms given to them at 14 years of age, is it not very unfair that the girl cadets should get no assistance at all, seeing that the majority of them will probably be joining the Services at a later date?

Mr. Dalton

As the hon. Lady knows, there has been a lot of consideration of this matter. I would like to point out to her that the voluntary youth organisations have no coupon concessions at all. In this respect the organisation referred to in the Question is treated in exactly the same way as the Boy Scouts. I would also point out that growing girls—and many of those concerned here fall into that category—get 10 extra coupons in any event. I am sorry I cannot go further, but the shortage of supplies is the predominant factor, which has to be borne in mind all the time.

Miss Ward

Do not boys grow, too?

Sir Patrick Hannon

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the immense strides and progress made by this movement in recent months, and will he consider the good effect there would be on the morale of these girls if this comparatively small concession were made?

Mr. Dalton

I cannot go any further than I have stated. I have the greatest sympathy with and appreciation of the work of these young people in these organisations, but I am sure that if hon. Members put to them the position with regard to the shortage of supplies due to the demands of the Forces and the conduct of the war, the morale of these young people will be elevated rather than depressed.

Miss Ward

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer my supplementary question?

Mr. Dalton

I am afraid I did not hear it.