§ Sir G. TOUCHEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether ho has considered that the prohibition of the sale after 1st February of high-legged boots, in so far as it relates to boots already manufactured, not only renders the capital locked up in the existing stocks unproductive during the life of the Order, but necessitates the manufacture of a quantity of other boots with lower legs to take their place, thus increasing the consumption of leather; and why, in view of these disadvantages, the Director 762W of Raw Materials refuses to exercise the power to issue permits for the sale of goods at present in stock, and what national advantages are derived from this policy?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe trade has been, informed that the sale of the goods referred to will be permitted during June and July next. In addition, a general permit has been issued modifying the basis of measurement, thus releasing for immediate sale a large proportion of the boots previously included under the Order. Permits are also issued for the sale of high-legged boots needed for agricultural and other industrial purposes.