§ Sir G. Gibsonasked the Minister of Supply what steps he is taking to secure an improvement in the supply of E.I. tanned kips to this country, where the shortage of suitable leather for the uppers of shoes for the working classes is serious; and how many bales of kips were shipped to this country from India from 1st January to 30th November, 1944, as compared with the same period in 1943 and in 1942.
§ Sir A. DuncanA special investigation into the East Indian tanned kip position was carried out early this year in conjunction with the Government of India, as a result of which the method of purchase was altered and prices were increased. Since then supplies have improved materially. It would not be desirable to make public figures of actual shipments.