HC Deb 25 November 1947 vol 444 cc1794-5
64. Mr. Shephard

asked the President of the Board of Trade, in view of the fact that stocks of woollen underwear are extremely low, if he will give an assurance that these goods will not be exported in such volume as to constitute a danger to the nation's health.

Mr. Belcher

It is our aim to maintain supplies of underwear at about 1946 levels; but I cannot guarantee that the supply position may not for a time become more difficult, though I hope this can be avoided.

Mr. Shephard

Is the Minister aware that this is a most dangerous situation, and will he look into it again? If these goods are being exported in such quantity as to constitute a danger to the health of this country, it is time that he did something about it.

Mr. Belcher

I am intrigued by the suggestion that I should look into the woollen underwear. I can assure the hon. Member that we are aware of the necessity to provide these articles, but, as he knows, it is the shortage of woollen yarn which is generally responsible for the present position. In so far as anything can be done to increase the supply of woollen yarn, we shall be prepared to do it.

Mr. Shephard

Is not the position due to the fact that too large a quantity is being exported?

Mrs. Leah Manning

Is my hon. Friend aware that far from. it being a danger to people's health to go without woollen underwear, the fact that they wear it is a sign that they mollycoddle themselves, and would be better off without it?