§ Mr. SWANasked the President of the Board of Trade if he has observed the 1257W excessive price of boots and clothing, and the comparative inferiority of the same compared with pre-war material; if he is aware that both prices and quality are imposing great hardship upon the wage-earners; and if he will take steps to reduce the prices of such materials and improve their quality so as to maintain the wage value and standard of living of the workers, and help to allay unrest?
§ Sir A. GEDDESIn face of the enormous demand, and of the increased cost of labour and fuel, it is impossible to hope that the price of such commodities will return at an early date to its pre-war level. I am well aware of the difficulties and un-rest created by the present level of prices, and in connection with the formulation of the Government's proposals with regard to the permanent trade policy of the country, am giving careful consideration to this and cognate matters.