HC Deb 25 February 1946 vol 419 cc1554-5
82. Captain MacLeod

asked the President of the Board of Trade what proportion of the utility furniture available for the United Kingdom is allotted to Scotland.

Sir S. Cripps

At present rather over seven per cent. of the total available for Great Britain. I am taking steps to increase the proportion.

Captain MacLeod

While I thank the President of the Board of Trade for his reply, does the right hon. Gentleman know that house furnishing firms in the North of Scotland are six and seven months behind in their deliveries and that they feel they are not getting a very fair share?

Sir S. Cripps

I appreciate it, but hitherto it has been done upon a zoning basis. We are trying to get more supplies in Scotland now.

Mr. Thurtle

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker. I would direct your attention to the fact that it is becoming the practice in this Parliament for Members to thank Ministers for their answers. Would not a great deal of time be saved, if it were taken for granted that Members are grateful for the good replies which the receive?

Mr. Speaker

That is a useful point, and anything that saves time is to be commended.