asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will now permit some decoration on domestic pottery.

No, Sir. The output of decorated pottery is limited by the size of the decorating labour force, and I am afraid that in present circumstances we cannot afford the loss of exports which would result from allowing its manufacture for sale on the home market.

If it is impossible to allow any decoration, will my right hon. Friend consider the possibility of producing some utility brands at least, in different colours, because the failure to have either decoration or colour does force up to fantastic heights the price of second-hand china?

I will certainly consider it.