§ 41. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the President of the Board of Trade what principle he now applies to applications by boot and shoe repairers and retailers for increased supplies of coupons; and will he reconsider the application of Mr. Andrew G. Sheret, 57, and 26, Powis Terrace, Aberdeen, for a larger coupon float in view of the need of the district in which Mr. Sheret trades, particulars of which have been sent to him.
§ Mr. H. WilsonBoot and shoe repairers do not require coupons for their business and retailers of shoes or other rationed goods are normally given them only if the position of the business is 3338 particularly bad in comparison with its pre-war position, or where there is consumer need or extreme hardship. My hon. and learned Friend will by now have received a letter about the case of Mr. Sheret.
§ Mr. HughesIs not the just principle to apply that of need, with the float increasing according to the needs of the district. Will not rigid adherence to the contrary, work injustice, particularly in the case of a growing district?
§ Mr. WilsonAs my hon. and learned Friend knows, it is not possible, in view of the present supply position, to increase the allocation to a particular retailer, except where there is a strong case based on consumer need.
§ Mr. HughesIs my right hon. Friend aware that this is a growing district where there is a great need for an increased allocation?