§ 72. Miss Baconasked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the fact that 18 coupons have to be surrendered for a woman's coat or suit, he will increase the number of coupons allocated for the next rationing period from 14 to 18.
§ Sir S. CrippsNo, Sir.
§ Miss BaconIs my right hon. Friend aware that refusal of this very modest request will cause great disappointment? And is he also aware this is causing great concern to manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers in the clothing trade who have large stocks of coats and suits which, they fear, they will not be able to sell this year?
§ Sir S. CrippsI fear that it would cause much greater concern if more coupons were issued than can be cashed.
§ 75. Mr. DouglasMarshall asked the President of the Board of Trade, in view 1551 of the small increase which he has allowed in the clothing coupon ration, if he will now consider allowing coupons to Regular fighting men arriving in the United Kingdom after serving over three years in a foreign station to enable them to obtain some plain clothes.
§ Sir S. CrippsNo, Sir. I regret that this is not possible.
§ Captain MarsdenWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman reconsider this and allow Regular Servicemen to obtain civilian clothes with coupons?
§ Sir S. CrippsIt has recently been reconsidered in association with the Service Ministers.