asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will increase the proportion of fresh-water fishing tackle which manufacturers are permitted to sell in the home market, in view of the present scarcity.

In view of the urgent need to increase exports of all kinds, I cannot accept the hon. Member's suggestion.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is impossible to buy a new line at the present time; does he know what it feels like to lose a good fish through worn-out tackle; and will he remember that it would make a great deal of difference to the pleasure of many people's holidays if he could make available a little more tackle?

No, Sir, I am not so aware, nor do I know what it feels like to lose a good fish. I have to inform the hon. Member, however, that owing to the shortage of materials it is not possible to maintain exports and, at the same time, increase substantially supplies to the home market.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the party opposite lost a good fish in 1945 because their tackle was worn out?