asked the President of the Board of Trade the reasons for the resignation of the Director of Civilian Clothing; whether he still remains a member of the Retail Shops Committee; and whether the appointment was, or will be in future, a full-time office?

Mr. Metford Watkins resigned his position at the Board of Trade as Director-General of Civilian Clothing for private reasons. He resigned from the Retail Trade Committee some weeks ago. The question of a further appointment is under consideration.