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There was a Ministry of Food which issued ration books to everyone and saw to the fair distribution of what food was available We obviously had sufficient as we seemed to be healthier than we are now and I think the public expected rationing but the biggest surprise was when clothes rationing came in and coupons had to be used as well as money for purchases.

The announcement that this was coming in was made on a Whit Sunday morning. What drapers and clothiers could not understand was how firms such as Woolworths who didn't sell clothes, only hosiery, suddenly had enough coupons to purchase stocks of other clothes.

Fortunately, in my parents’ business we had a good stock and were able to keep up our supplies. The coupons were counted at the close of business each night and were then banked similarly to banking cheques and cash. When new stock was ordered coupons from this account had to be enclosed but we were not allowed to overdraw on this account as one could on a cash or cheque account.

When one got married the couple were allowed coupons for 3 sheets and points for "Utility" furniture. This was very well designed and well made and although it was often despised it is now sought after.

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