§ 72. Mr. Errollasked the President of the Board of Trade why Kelston Products, Ltd., of Hitchin Road, E.10, have had their production of Christmas crackers limited; and to what extent this was done by him at the request of established cracker manufacturers.
§ Mr. BelcherChristmas crackers have been controlled first under the Limitation of Supplies (Miscellaneous) Order and since 1945 under the Limitation of Supply (Toys and Indoor Games) Order, under the heading of carnival novelties. Last34W year doubts were raised whether this reference to Christmas crackers was specific enough. Opportunity was therefore taken, to put the matter beyond doubt by an amendment that became operative on the 1st February.
Kelston Products Ltd., like all other unregistered manufacturers who come within the scope of the Order, are only allowed to supply £1,800 worth of goods, including Christmas crackers, on the home market within six months. The object of the restriction is to save scarce raw materials, in this case paper. The reply to the second part of the Question is, "Not at all."