asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the estimated loss of pairs of silk stockings of all makes as a result of two weeks closing down of the hosiery trade.

I assume that the hon. and gallant Member refers to losses caused by the cutting off of electricity supplies on 10th February which lasted for two weeks in the Midlands and for three weeks in other areas. The loss of output of pure silk stockings due to this cause is estimated at about 16,000 dozen pairs.