asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement with regard to his shortterm and long-term policy for the production of utility clothing, in view of the desirability, in the public interests, to maintain adequate standards of quality.

I do not think that I can add to the statement I made in reply to my hon. Friend during the Debate on consumer goods on 26th June. There is no question of discontinuing the scheme until we get a very much better supply of clothing, but its continuance thereafter will be considered when the time arrives.

Does my right hon. and learned Friend realise what very real safe- guards are being provided for the public and manufacturers in eliminating some of the shoddy clothing, and can he give an undertaking that, as far as possible, the standard will be maintained permanently, even if clothing supplies become more prevalent, because the safeguard will be appreciated?

I can quite understand that it has been appreciated, and continuance of the scheme will be considered when the time arrives.