asked the President of the Board of Trade what action he is taking, following consideration with the appropriate committees of the Light Clothing Federation, to deal with the increasing difficulty of obtaining children's utility clothing.

I am meeting two committees of the Light Clothing Federation tomorrow to discuss what action needs to be taken to increase the supply of children's utility clothing.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the widespread worry about children's clothes and the shortage of utility wear, and can he say what are the particular lines which are very scarce?

The lines that are particularly scarce are underwear and light outerwear.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a further embarrassment is the price of children's utility clothing? Is he satisfied that the profit margin will not allow of cuts in its prices?

A comprehensive review has been undertaken of these prices and it will be out in a few days' time.

Does not the Minister agree that the price of children's clothing appears to be relatively greater than the price of adult clothing, and will he look into this very carefully since it is a matter of grave concern to mothers?

Yes, Sir, certainly. One of the disadvantages of negotiating with the trade on this matter is that there is no Purchase Tax in this field.