§ 19. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is now in a position to state the result of his discussions with the shoe manufacturers in regard to producing women's shoes of more varied and larger sizes.
§ Mr. H. WilsonI regret that the discussions referred to in my reply on 29th January have not yet been concluded. I will write to the hon. and gallant Member as soon as they are.
§ Sir T. MooreWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that this is one of the most uncomfortable and unjustified trials which women have to bear—that is, wearing and queueing in ill-fitting shoes? Will he encourage and instruct manufacturers to follow the example of the American and Canadian manufacturers and produce shoes of varying widths and sizes?
§ Mr. WilsonI am continually being requested by hon. Members opposite to instruct manufacturers on matters which have so far been regarded as matters for private trade arrangement. So far, we are hoping to be able to deal with these matters by way of encouragement.
§ Mr. KeelingWill the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that the small-footed women of England will receive at least as much consideration as the large-footed women of Scotland?
§ Mr. WilsonYes, Sir.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that while this matter is under consideration feet are still growing?
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider the remarks of the hon. Member for "Taggs Island" to be quite in order.