§ 37. Mr. E. J. Williamsasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the continued difficulty of working housewives in getting household linen; and whether he will provide coupons for these supplies from the series in the current clothing books which have not hitherto been earmarked for any purpose.
§ Mr. DaltonNo, Sir. As I have explained in answer to previous Questions, towels and tea-towels are the only essential items of household linen which are rationed; and, in view of the present shortage of cotton textile supplies, I regret that I cannot see my way to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion.
§ Mr. WilliamsIn the light of evacuation difficulties, can my right hon. Friend not look at this matter again? Is not evacuation causing difficulties in this respect, particularly in South Wales?
§ Mr. DaltonEvacuation raises a quite different issue, and there I am taking special steps to see that none of the persons evacuated, nor those upon whom they are billeted, will suffer disabilities.