§ Mr. F. Willeyasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the concern felt by the retail furniture traders regarding the apportionment of utility furniture to Northumberland and Durham; and whether he will consider altering the present zoning system to provide for the more equitable distribution of utility furniture.
§ Sir S. CrippsI am aware that in Northumberland, Durham and the North-East generally the supply of utility furniture is not so good as in some other areas. In the districts around Newcastle and Sunderland there are 14 manufacturers designated to make utility furniture. A further 12 are now being considered for designation. I am constantly adjusting the supply and distribution of utility furniture and I am now arranging for supplies of cabinet goods to be sent to the North and North-East from other areas.