§ 79 and 81. Mr. Attewellasked the President of the Board of Trade (1) what 36 steps he is taking to maintain and increase supplies of upper and lining leather;
(2) if he will explain the method by which hides, skins and leather are received by this country by international allocation.
§ Sir S. CrippsThe International Committee on Hides, Skins and Leather was wound up with the unanimous agreement of all the members on 26th June and international allocations of these materials have now ceased. We are, therefore, now free to obtain material without restrictions as to quantity and my hon. Friend can be assured that subject to due regard being given to market conditions, all possible steps will be taken to maintain, and if possible, increase supplies of upper and lining leather. I must again emphasise that while the world shortage continues it will be necessary to augment the leather available by the use of substitutes wherever possible.
§ Mr. AttewellIs the Minister aware that many boot and shoe operatives, clickers, are now working short time in the main centres?
§ Sir S. CrippsI am aware that there is still great difficulty about leather supplies, which we are trying to remedy.