§ 3. Mr. W. R. Williamsasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the shortage of bicycle chains which exists in all cycle stores in Heston and Isle-worth and surrounding districts; that such shortage is causing hardship and inconvenience to workers using bicycles to travel to and from work; and what action he proposes to take to ensure more equitable distribution.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussI would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for the Isle of Wight (Sir P. Macdonald) on 25th March last.
§ Mr. WilliamsIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that the shortage is not due to 876 the fact that manufacturers are using all available cycle accessories in order to recondition surplus Army cycles which are later sold at exorbitant prices on the hire purchase system, and will he look further into this matter?
§ Mr. StraussI do not know anything about that aspect of the problem—that may be a factor—but the main reason for the shortage is the enormously increased demand and the shortage of certain basic materials.
§ Mr. WilliamsWill my right hon. Friend look into the aspect which I have brought to his notice?