asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that many shops hold large stocks of shoes which they are entitled to sell only to officers on the active service list; and whether, in view of the shortage of shoes for civilians, he will, now that the war is over, relax whatever restrictions prevent the sale of these shoes to civilians.

I am not aware that any shops are holding more shoes for sale to officers than is justified by the amount of this trade which they are doing; but I should be willing to look into any specific cases which may be known to the right hon. Member.