HC Deb 19 December 1946 vol 431 cc2151-2
25. Mr. York

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the shortage of children's shoes, particularly sizes two and three, in Harrogate; and whether he will take steps to relieve this shortage

Sir S. Cripps

There has been a steady improvement in supplies of children's shoes since last year, In addition, crêpe rubber for soling is available in increasing quantities, and more Wellingtons and plimsolls are reaching the shops. Except in the more expensive types, for which leather and manufacturing capacity are still considerably behind demand, the position is improving and will continue to improve. I am not aware of any special shortage of particular sizes in the Harrogate area, but, if the hon. Member will give me details of any specific complaints he has received, I will look into them.

Mr. York

Is the President aware that I have been at his Department for the last 18 months particularly pressing his attention to these two sizes, and will he not take steps to see that the production of smaller sizes is increased in the North?

Sir S. Cripps

We are taking those steps and I think there has been a satisfactory improvement