§ 42. Sir J. Mellorasked the President of the Board of Trade what special facilities are allowed to agricultural workers to obtain clothing and boots; and whether, having regard to wear, tear and exposure to weather, such facilities are calculated to be adequate by reference to current civilian standards?
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Dalton)In addition to the ordinary civilian ration, agricultural workers received 10 extra coupons in the last rationing period and will receive a further 10 during the present period. They can also obtain oilskin clothing and milkingsmocks coupon-free against certificates issued by 1441 a county agricultural committee. High priority is granted to agricultural workers in the allocation of the limited supplies of rubber boots, for which buying permits are issued by the county agricultural committees.
§ Sir J. MellorWill the right hon. Gentleman make further inquiries, as it is clear that there is a great hardship to agricultural workers?
§ Mr. DaltonI am not quite clear what the hon. Baronet wants me to inquire into. I have given particulars as to the treatment accorded in regard to coupons and clothing to agricultural workers. I have them very much in mind and I have no evidence that the arrangements are proving inadequate.
§ Sir J. MellorWill the right hon. Gentleman inquire whether agricultural workers obtain sufficient clothing for replacement?
§ Mr. DaltonPerhaps the hon. Baronet will give me any evidence that he has.