Hosiery (Stocks)

Oral Answers to Questions — Trade and Commerce – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 17 June 1948.

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Photo of Mr Cyril Osborne Mr Cyril Osborne , Louth Borough 12:00, 17 June 1948

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the peak textile stocks just shown by the Bank of England monthly statistical return and the high price of wool, he will now permit all hosiery goods to be sold without clothing coupons.

Photo of Mr Harold Wilson Mr Harold Wilson , Ormskirk

No, Sir. The return mentioned is no doubt that for April, since when steps have been taken which should help to move these stocks.

Photo of Mr Cyril Osborne Mr Cyril Osborne , Louth Borough

Is the President of the Board of Trade aware that wool is now three times higher in price than it was at the end of the war, and that manufacturers are afraid to make big stocks because they may be ruined? Will he therefore take off coupons to encourage manufacturers to go on making stocks.

Photo of Mr Harold Wilson Mr Harold Wilson , Ormskirk

Wool, from which we removed all controls some time ago, is undoubtedly above the post-war price, but that is no argument for taking off coupons. The matter was fully debated in this House less than three weeks ago.