HC Deb 30 May 1940 vol 361 cc661-2
91. Captain Plugge

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that large numbers of people will waive taking their rations of sugar and butter if an appeal is made to them; and whether he will consider making such an appeal?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Mr. Boothby)

I am well aware of the readiness of the general public to make such a sacrifice in the public interest and should the necessity arise my Noble Friend would not hesitate to make an appeal on the lines suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend. The need has frequently been stressed for strict economy in the use of foodstuffs generally and for the avoidance of waste.

Sir Francis Fremantle

Will my hon. Friend remember that if he were to make an appeal of that sort very often the more conscientious type of people would starve themselves, and that this would have a worse effect upon the nutrition of the people?

Mr. Boothby

Yes, Sir.