HC Deb 09 December 1947 vol 445 cc159-60W
67. Mr. E. Evans

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the shortage of suitable clothing for agricultural workers in the Beccles, Suffolk, area; that the shops are unable to supply essential needs; and if he will arrange for supplies to be made available.

Mr. Belcher

As the result of a special investigation I have caused to be made, I find that Beccles is receiving its fair share of available supplies of clothing suitable for agricultural workers. Any improvement in supplies to Beccles, as to the rest of the country, depends on the success of the textile industries' efforts to increase the output of cloth.

68. Mr. E. Evans

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he it satisfied that the present allocation of clothing coupons to agricultural workers is sufficient to meet their minimum requirements during the winter months.

Mr. Belcher

I am satisfied that the coupon supplements and the special facilities provided for agricultural workers to obtain essential protective clothing, will meet their minimum requirements during the winter months.