HC Deb 10 February 1947 vol 433 cc1369-70
30. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the shortage of baby linen and small children's clothes in the city of Aberdeen; and if he will increase the supply of these commodities, which are badly needed during the winter, and so alter the points system as to make them available to the public.

Sir S. Cripps

Every effort is being made still further to increase the production of baby linen and small children's clothes, and to keep pace with the steadily rising demand. I have no information that the position in Aberdeen is more difficult than elsewhere or that present pointings prevent the public from buying the supplies which are available.

Mr. Hughes

In fixing points for clothing, particularly children's clothing, will my right hon. and learned Friend have regard to the winter climate on the North-East Coast of Scotland?

Sir S. Cripps

That is one of the matters to which we have regard.

39. Mr. William Teeling

asked the President of the Board of Trade why Brighton shops are so poorly stocked with youths' and boys' outerwear; and how soon can they expect supplies to be improved.

Sir S. Cripps

I attribute the shortage, which is confined to the better quality outerwear of the school uniform type, to the return of many schools to Brighton. I hope that some further supplies will reach the shops very soon and that, despite production hold-ups, the position will have eased before the next school term.

Mr. Teeling

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that this case would not have come to his notice without agitation from the town of Brighton and, in the circumstances, has he not somebody in his Department who watches over these matters?

Sir S. Cripps

Certainly, but one cannot have sufficient people to watch every area all the time.

Sir Patrick Hannon

Is any concession which is made to Brighton being extended to other parts of the country?

Sir S. Cripps

This is a special question because a number of schools which moved from Brighton have now returned there Therefore, there is a much larger school population.

Mr. De la Bère

Are we to understand that whenever we want a thing we have got to agitate before we can get it?