asked the Minister for Supplies if he will state whether any agreement has been arrived at satisfactory to all the parties affected by the clothes rationing scheme; if he is aware that the week ending 20th June has been the dullest ever in the tailoring and drapery trades for many years, and if he will see that unemployment is not created as a result of the rationing scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clothes Rationing Scheme.
Mr. Byrne
I would refer the Deputy to the announcement made recently that the coupon values under the clothes rationing scheme had been amended for a period up to the 30th September next in the case of goods made wholly or mainly of artificial silk, and in the case of dungarees and men's shirts. That change was made after consultation with all the interests affected.
Other representations have been made to me by parties affected that the clothes rationing scheme should be amended in further respects. These representations are under consideration.
The general position in respect of supplies of clothing materials is such, however, that the aim of the rationing scheme must be to conserve existing stocks with a view to maintaining supplies of clothing over the longest possible period.
I am not aware whether the week ended 20th June was the dullest experienced in the tailoring and drapery trades for many years, as stated by the Deputy, but I should not be surprised if such were the case having regard to the abnormal sales effected immediately prior to the coming into operation of the rationing scheme, and to the intimation given to the public that proposals for the modification of the scheme were being considered.
In regard to the final portion of the Deputy's question, I must point out that it is not the rationing scheme, but the shortage of supplies, which will affect employment in the tailoring and drapery trades. The purpose of the rationing scheme is to spread out the consumption of available supplies, and by so doing should have the effect of prolonging employment.