HC Deb 21 December 1944 vol 406 cc1946-7
68. Sir W. Davison

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the shortage of hair combs, which in many places are not obtainable; and if he will take steps to deal with this matter.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Captain Waterhouse)

Yes, Sir. As my right hon. Friend said in answer to my hon. Friend the Member for Bosworth (Sir W. Edge) on 26th September, he is doing all he can to improve supplies.

Sir W. Davison

But is not my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that a large proportion of the population no longer wear hats, and that under those circumstances a comb is essential to make seemly their disordered and frequently dishevelled locks?

Captain Waterhouse

Desirable as combs are, the labour and material for providing them are very short. Nevertheless, it has been possible in the last quarter to increase production by no less than half a million combs.

Mr. Messer

Can we ask the large number of hon. Members in this House who do not need combs, to give them up?