§ 9. Mr. R. C. Morrisonasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the scarcity of children's boots suitable for wet weather; and whether, in the interests of their health, he will increase the supply of small children's Wellington boots.
§ Mr. DaltonSupplies of rubber are still very short; but I am glad to say that I was able to arrange for the production of a small quantity of children's Wellingtons to be restarted this summer.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs not my right hon. Friend aware that children's utility shoes now on sale are generally made of rubbishy material, that very high prices are charged for them, and that these shoes are quite unsuitable for children in the winter-time? I have seen some of them, and they are too bad.
§ Mr. DaltonThe Question relates to children's Wellingtons. With regard to other shoes, I have frequently told the House of the efforts that are being made to raise the standards of production, and I repeat, what I think my hon. Friend will have heard me say before, that every manufacturer has now to mark every pair of boots or shoes with his number, and if it is represented to me that any manufacturer persistently produces goods from shoddy material the necessary steps are taken.
§ Mr. R. C. MorrisonWill my right hon. Friend give particular attention to the complaints of mothers with young 1770 families, that they find difficulty in getting children's shoes that will keep out the wet?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir, I am very anxious to do everything possible to see that children are well shod.