HC Deb 13 November 1947 vol 444 c522
9. Mr. Tiffany

asked the President of the Board of Trade if it is proposed that the subsidy on tanned skins should be terminated as from 30th November, 1947.

Mr. H. Wilson

Discussions are going on with the trade with that date in mind.

Mr. Tiffany

Dealing specifically with the removal of the subsidy, could the President of the Board of Trade inform us what increase in price would result from the removal of the subsidy and what steps will be taken to see that increased profits do not arise from the increased price as will be possible under the present price regulations?

Mr. Wilson

The actual increase in price will depend upon a large number of factors all of which are now being discussed with the footwear industry, but I am informed that the actual increase which would result directly from the removal of the subsidy is something between 10 per cent. and 15 per cent.

Mr. Tiffany

Could I have an answer to the second part of my supplementary question?

Mr. Wilson

As was stated yesterday, that question will be very carefully borne in mind.