§ 34. Mr. Skinnardasked the Minister of Pensions whether, as the supply position is now easier, he will consider increasing the issue of stump stocks to the former allocation of six for a half year to wearers of artificial limbs.
§ Mr. BuchananSome 12 months ago the supply position was critical and there were delays in making replacement issues even on the present scale. As a result of steps taken by my Department, the supply position has improved considerably and the delays have been substantially overcome. Production still falls short of what is desired, but I am hoping if additional labour can be obtained for a further improvement which will enable me to increase the replacement rate.
§ Mr. SkinnardWhile the ex-Service men will be extremely pleased to hear of the 975 improvement in the position, can the Minister say whether the improvement is sufficient to enable a return to the position of 4½ years ago?
§ Mr. BuchananI am sorry it is not. What I want to do is to cut down the delays as much as possible. The manufacturers with whom we have, been in touch tell us that it is almost entirely due to a shortage of labour. The firm is a first-class firm, and they are doing all they can, but there is this shortage of labour. I do not want to use the power of compulsory direction of labour in connection with this firm, because its employees are young girls, and I do not wish to direct girls of a young age.