SIMPLIFIED CLOTHING

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 77, 10 August 1942, Page 4

SIMPLIFIED CLOTHING

PLAN FOR MANUFACTURE IN NEW ZEALAND MR SULLIVAN ELUCIDATES POSITION Christchurch, This Dav •‘Simplification of clothing is be ing undertaken in New Zealand and progress has already been made.” said the Minister of Supply, Mr Sullivan, when referring to advice received from other Umpire countries and the United States concern ing similar action taken there. "The purpose of this simplification is to conserve manpower and materials so that a maximum quantity of goods will be produced within limitations of available supplies of raw material and labour. “It is too early to indicate the exact form that the simplification will take, bul care is being exercised to avoid calling on persons to make sacrifices which will not yield a corresponding benefit to the community as a whole. Full recognition is being given to the necessity for simplification, but it is con. sidcred that nothing so drastic as is implied by the term ‘austerity clothing’ will be necessary at least at this stage. "From examination of the position it appears that maximum savings can be effected by simplification along lines which will not unduly interfere with the enterprise of a manufacturer in individual design, style and finish, or the taste of the user when these factors do not make excessive demands or materials and labour. Nevertheless, if a saving of 10 or 20 per cent, of avail able supplies can be made and the quantity of garments available is proportionately increased both manufacturers and consumers will benefit correspondingly. This n the principle along which sijnniifirntion of clothing is being developed.”- P.A