103. Mr. Jegerasked the Minister of Food whether an additional ration of soap will be issued for coal workers in railway yards where there are no washing facilities.
§ Mr. StracheyExtra soap is available for tippers, bunkerers and teamers in the coal transport industry and for coal trimmers generally. Supplies do not per- 213W mit of extra soap being provided for any other classes of coal workers in railway yards.
§ 117. Mr. Ewartasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that barbers are being refused supplies of shaving soap by manufacturers on the ground that they cannot fulfil orders; and what steps he is taking to right this matter.
§ Mr. StracheyIf my hon. Friend will supply me with particulars of the cases he has in mind, I shall he glad to see whether I can assist in securing supplies.
§ 118. Mr. Ewartasked the Minister of Food what provision is made for the supply of soap, in addition to the soap ration, to heavy industrial workers who have no facilities for washing at their place of employment.
§ Mr. StracheyNone, Sir. I regret I am unable to make special provision for workers mentioned.
§ 119. Sir J. Mellorasked the Minister of Food if he will now explain why 5,000 tons of soap, offered by Australia, were not acquired for the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. StracheyA small offer of soap was received from the Australian Government for the first time just over a week ago. I hope to take advantage of this offer as soon as the necessary arrangements can be made.