asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the difficulties of missionaries who have been away from this country for many years obtaining clothing by the coupon system when home on furlough and who have to lay in a stock of equipment for several years on their return to the mission field; and will he make special provision for such cases?

Yes, Sir. The Board of Trade are prepared to issue coupons to meet all reasonable requirements of this kind.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that under the Milk and Dairies Order the wearing of milking smocks and caps is compulsory if the milk is to be sold to the public, he will issue an instruction making it clear that these garments may be bought without coupons?

As was stated in reply to Questions on 24th June, discussions are now proceeding about provision under the clothing rationing scheme for special occupational needs. Caps are exempted from the Rationing Order.

asked the President of the Board of Trade what decision has been reached with regard to the question of the surrendering or otherwise of coupons for knitting-wool purchased in the ordinary way by women desiring to use it to make comforts for their friends and relations in the forces?

I am sorry that I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman likely to be able to make a statement in the near future, because there is a lot of women who want to start knitting?

"The near future" is rather a vague term. The consideration of this and other matters is being actively pursued, but it is very difficult to get a solution which will give general satisfaction.