§ 35. Miss Baconasked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the increased stocks of women's outerwear held by retailers, he will consider down-pointing such garments for a limited period.
§ Mr. H. WilsonNo, Sir. I do not regard the stocks of women's outerwear held by retailers as abnormally large, and all available stocks of clothing will be required to meet the ration during the coming months when the demands of the export programme will make themselves increasingly felt.
§ Miss BaconIs my right hon. Friend aware that last week, in answer to a Question of mine, the Parliamentary Secretary said that the stocks in the hands of retailers were today 44 per cent. above those of a year ago? Does he consider those stocks abnormal? Is he further aware that fashions are changing and retailers may have considerable difficulty in disposing of these stocks?
§ Mr. WilsonIt is true that the stocks of women's wear, as compared with men's wear, have got a bit out of balance. But, as has already been stated, the production of men's wear is increasing, and of women's wear decreasing, which will help to redress the balance.
§ Mr. Sydney SilvermanWill my right hon. Friend now consider answering the letter I wrote to him a little while ago on the same subject, without my putting a Question on the Order Paper?
§ Mr. WilsonYes, Sir.