§ 6. Mr. Geoffrey Cooperasked the Minister of Supply if he is aware of the acute shortage of bicycle chains and similar spare parts for bicycles; and if he will take steps to ensure a greater supply being made available especially for industrial districts such as Tees-side, where bicycles are essential for industrial workers who are engaged on shift work to reach their work, often at times when regular public transport services are not available and at considerable distances from their homes.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussOwing to the large number of bicycles and spares now being exported, some shortage at home is unavoidable, but supplies of both spares and chains are improving. A revised scheme of distribution of chains for replacement purposes has recently been introduced, and special attention has been paid to the needs of industrial areas.
§ Mr. CooperWhile appreciating my right hon. Friend's reply, may I ask whether it implies that he will see that areas where there is a three-shift system being worked, upon seven days per week, will get special supplies of these spare parts?
§ Mr. StraussI will bear that point in mind.