HC Deb 02 December 1948 vol 458 cc2146-7
3. Mrs. Leah Manning

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that it is impossible to purchase in Chingford and Walthamstow children's three-quarter length woollen socks, between the sizes of 6½inches and 8 inches; and what steps he is taking to remedy this position.

Mr. H. Wilson

Children's three-quarter length stockings are difficult in all districts, not only Chingford and Walthamstow. Steps have been taken to obtain increased production and to restrict exports.

Mrs. Manning

May I express my great satisfaction at the reply that has been given because I am sure the Minister understands that these socks are worn by little girls to whom this weather is very serious? Will he see that the goods are in the shops as soon as possible?

Mr. Wilson

Yes, Sir, the shortage of yarn which was responsible for some shortage in this direction some time ago has now disappeared. The shortage is now mainly due to inadequate machinery and capacity and, in some cases, shortage of manpower.

4. Mrs. Manning

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the disappearance of children's raincoats from the shops; and what steps he is taking to settle the dispute between the manufacturers and the Board of Trade which has led to this situation.

Mr. H. Wilson

I am aware that children's raincoats made from wool and union gaberdine cloths are scarce. Supplies of these cloths to the home market have fallen because they are very good exports, particularly to hard currency markets, and not because of any dispute between the manufacturers and the Board of Trade.

Mrs. Manning

Would my right hon. Friend try to take the same steps in regard to boys' raincoats as he is taking in regard to little girls' socks, because, as he knows, in this weather it is necessary for little boys going to school to have raincoats?

Mr. Wilson

The steps taken in the case of the socks through some restriction of exports could not be justifiably taken here, because this is one of the best Canadian dollar earners and I would not feel justified in reducing dollar exports.