Mr. De la Bèreasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can now make a statement of the Government's intention in connection with the production of utility articles, both as regards factory arrangements and supply to the public; and whether he will give an assurance that it will be the practice of the Board of Trade in future to make statements or announcements to the House of Commons in the first instance before issuing them through the Press and the British Broadcasting Corporation.
§ Mr. DaltonIn pursuance of a policy stated in the House on a number of occasions, the production of utility and simplified types of goods is being extended in order to ensure supplies of essential articles to the public at controlled and reasonable prices, and to economise in labour and materials. Production of utility clothing and footwear, household textiles, mechanical lighters and pencils is already proceeding. Arrangements for the production of other utility and simplified types of goods are in preparation. These include pottery, hollow-ware, furniture, cutlery, floor coverings and travel goods. I shall always, when possible, make an announcement in this House of major policy decisions, but the House will not, I am sure, expect me, unless information on particular points is1090W specially asked for by hon. Members, to report on every development of accepted policy.