asked the President of the Board of Trade what assistance he will give to the large-footed men of the country by encouraging manufacturers to make available socks of the size of 12 inches upwards.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the shortage of large-sized men's socks, particularly the 12-inch size; and if he will take steps to increase the production of the larger sizes to meet the demand and to prevent the discomfort and foot troubles which result from socks being too short.

Manufacturers are allowed increased prices for their utility socks in sizes 12-inch and above. I have no evidence of a particular scarcity of these goods, but, if my hon. Friends will send me further information, I will consider whether anything needs to be done.

Is the Minister aware that if he goes round the shops of London, or anywhere else, he just cannot find the full-length socks needed by men requiring not 12-inch shoes, but 10½-inch shoes?

I am not aware of that, but if the hon. Gentleman will draw my attention to a particular case, I will consider it.

In view of the large number of Questions addressed to the President of the Board of Trade on such matters as socks and other things, would he receive a deputation of such over-sized men to drive the point home?

I think the matter has been so thoroughly inquired into as a result of all the representations made, that it would do no good.

Might I ask the Minister whether, when he is considering socks for men with big feet, he will also consider special socks for Members on the other side suffering from cold feet?