§ 78. Mr. Jannerasked the President of the Board of Trade what complaints he has received that utility sheets shrink and crack when washed; and whether he will take steps to ensure the production of utility sheets of better quality.
§ Mr. RhodesNo such complaints have been received. If my non. Friend has a specific case in mind, I will look into it.
§ Mr. JannerWill my hon. Friend inform the Institute of British Launderers, when they give this as a reason for the returning of laundry in a bad condition, that they are making a very bad mistake?
§ Mr. RhodesI have gone to some trouble to consult the British Standards Institute and the British Textiles Association, and I have not received any complaints at all.
§ Mr. W. FletcherWill the hon. Gentleman see that the sheets are white enough for the political use of his colleagues?
Miss WardIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the housewives are getting weary of the ever-increasing—[Interruption.] On a point of Order. Would the hon. Gentleman like me to repeat the question in order that he may hear it?
§ Mr. RhodesYes.
Miss WardIs the hon. Gentleman aware that housewives are getting very tired of the ever-increasing deterioration in household goods, and is he taking any steps to see whether the quality can be improved?
§ Mr. RhodesThat is not correct. Household goods, especially the ones referred to, which are of cotton, are wholly made to British standard specification and are kept to it.
§ Mrs. Jean MannIs my hon. Friend aware that the complaints are chiefly about goods which are not taxed and the prices of which are not controlled?