HC Deb 28 November 1945 vol 416 c1323
67. Mr. Walker

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in order to encourage the work of youth organisations, he will exempt from coupons uniforms for Church Lads' brigades and other simliar movements.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Until more labour and materials are available, these uniforms cannot be exempted from coupons.

Mr. Walker

In view of the fact that these organisations are being retarded in their progress, will my hon. Friend consider releasing from coupons the ample supplies of uniform-cloth, and second-hand uniforms which are available?

Mr. Smith

No one is more sympathetic to these organisations than I am, having benefited from them in my younger days. There are a number of them and the position is difficult; there are Scouts, Guides and others, and if you give way to one organisation you have to give way to all. We will keep the matter in mind and as soon as some readjustment can take place it will be considered.

Mr. Walker

Is my hon. Friend aware that my Question refers to other organisations apart from the Church Lads' Brigade movement, and that I take them all in?