HC Deb 30 May 1916 vol 82 cc2570-1
50. Mr. G. FABER

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the present prices for meat in this country and the probability of meat shortage arising unless the available supply is controlled, he will take steps to arrange a Government scheme for putting the civil community on meat rations before a crisis arises?

Mr. PRETYMAN

I must refer the hon. Member to the reply which was given yesterday to a similar question asked by my hon. Friend the Member for the Bramsley Division of Yorkshire.

Mr. FABER

Is the meat supply at present in this country, of home-grown or imported meat, equal in amount to the supplies this time last year?

Mr. PRETYMAN

Broadly speaking, the price is not due to insufficiency of the sources of supply, but there are very large requirements for the forces in the field. If my hon. Friend asks whether there is as much available for the civil population, the answer is "No." If he asks whether there is as much available for the whole population, including that part at the front and the service of our Allies, the answer is that there is a deficiency.

Mr. FABER

Is the deficiency for the civil population a serious one?

Mr. PRETYMAN

It is a question of degree. It is serious enough to have a considerable effect in raising prices. The supply is less than the demand.

Mr. FABER

Could not prices be raised without the supply being materially shorter?

Mr. ASHLEY

Would it not be much better to limit the price than to put the people on rations?

Mr. PRETYMAN

The whole matter is under consideration.