§ 49. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the great shortage and increased prices of children's shoes, clothing and underwear; and what steps are being taken to augment the supply of these goods.
§ Mr. J. EdwardsThere is no general shortage of these goods; for example, supplies of children's shoes to the home market are about one-third higher than pre-war. There are, however, shortages of a few kinds and qualities for which all practicable steps to improve home supplies are being taken. As regards prices, there have been some increases, due mainly to increased raw material costs, but there have also been some decreases.
§ Mr. FreemanIs my hon. Friend aware of the widespread discontent there is over this matter, and especially because there is a large number of fancy articles at very high prices but a shortage of the more ordinary things children want?
§ Mr. EdwardsIf my hon. Friend will give me examples of cases he has in mind I will gladly look into them.