asked the President of the Board of Trade what reports he has had as to the effect of the order requiring a 33⅓ per cent. deposit for hire purchase of hand-operated wringing and washing machines; and whether he will now announce the abolition or at least reduction of this deposit.

I have received a number of representations about the effect of the Hire-Purchase and Credit Sale Agreements (Control) Order on sales of hand-operated wringing and washing machines, the most recent on 28th January from the Washing Machine Makers Association. These representations are being very carefully considered, but I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

:Will the President bear in mind that these are essentially articles used by the less well off sections of the population?

I should not like to express an opinion on that matter.