HC Deb 22 February 1944 vol 397 cc631-2
14. Mr. Sorensen

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the acute shortage of carpets and the difficulty of bombed-out families and young married couples securing these; and whether he will consider arranging for the production of utility carpets with the utility furniture now available.

Mr. Dalton

The production of carpets, for which the raw materials are mainly imported, has practically ceased since 1942 and most of the labour and factory space is now being used on direct war work. There is a limited output of linoleum and felt base and I have asked retailers to reserve supplies for holders of utility furniture buying permits.

Mr. Sorensen

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether that means that some survey of the available number of carpets is being undertaken? Could he not do that if it has not already been done; and could he not also explore the possibility of using substances other than jute and so on for carpets?

Mr. Dalton

There would not be much to survey, because practically no carpets have been produced for two years. We are trying to make the best use we can of the substitutes to which I have referred. In addition to genuine linoleum, I am told various substitutes have been invented. We will do our best, but the point is that there are practically no carpets available.

Mr. Sorensen

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that supplies are sent where they are most required, especially to bombed-out areas?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, I have in fact already given directions that, as far as possible, these supplies of substitute material shall go to areas where there has been heavy bombing.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that speculators have bought up carpets and are storing them in warehouses; and has he any means of getting these stocks liberated for those who need carpets?

Mr. Dalton

If my hon. Friend will give me particulars, I will see whether we can apply a little moral suasion.