HC Deb 14 October 1952 vol 505 cc7-8
16. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take steps to reduce the present high prices of children's clothing and footwear.

Mr. H. Strauss

We are anxious that supplies of children's clothing and footwear of good quality shall be available at reasonable prices, and consider that in present market conditions this object is most likely to be achieved by free competition between suppliers. Prices of these goods have in general fallen since the beginning of this year.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Would the Parliamentary Secretary give some indication to the public in what respect the prices of children's clothing and footwear have fallen since the beginning of the year, because there are still wide-spread complaints?

Mr. Strauss

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will look at the Ministry of Labour Index of Retail Prices.