HC Deb 12 November 1945 vol 415 cc1864-5W
Mr. Watkins

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the shortage of children's low leg Wellington boots, sizes 4 to 8; and what steps are being taken to increase their production.

Sir S. Cripps

We are at present concentrating on the production of sizes 8 and above so that as many Wellingtons as possible are available for school children. As soon as this demand has been met production will be extended to the smaller sizes.

Lieut.-Colonel Amory

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to ensure that a generous share of existing supplies of babies' and children's footwear is made available for country children who often have long distances to walk to school and particularly in the county of Devon where the shortage is marked.

Sir S. Cripps

Arrangements have been made by which rubber footwear for children is sold only to children living in country districts. It is not possible to introduce a special priority scheme for leather footwear, but my Area Distribution Officers make every effort to see that country districts receive their full share of supplies available.