asked the President of the Board of Trade what action he proposes to take in respect of the report made to his Department from the Wholesale Textile Association that during the recent severe weather women's vests were being sold two inches short of the required length.

The minimum lengths for women's utility vests are specified in the Utility Apparel (Women's and Maids' Underwear and Nightwear) (Manufacture and Supply) Order, 1949, and I have no evidence that utility vests are being sold which do not comply with the relevant provisions of this Order. These minima are those laid down by the Lingerie Committee of the British Standards Institution, on which manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers are represented.

Is my right hon. Friend not aware that the vast majority of women have a vested interest in this problem and are looking to the Minister to take the necessary action to protect the consumers' interest?

I have no detailed information about the views of the vast majority of women on this question, but, as I said, there is a committee of the British Standards Institution on which at least three women are serving. When I get their views I shall consider what action should be taken.

Does this Order provide for any elasticity in the size of women, or is there a utility size for them as well?

I think that is fully looked after.