HC Deb 22 June 1917 vol 94 cc2115-6
2. Sir HENRY CRAIK

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he has issued any Orders restricting soldiers from buying in military canteens the amount of food which they would receive were they on rations instead of receiving a money allowance in lieu of rations?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Bridgeman)

No Orders have been issued by the Ministry of Food on this subject. A circular has been sent to the Canteen Committee by the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic), with the concurrence of the Food Controller and the Minister of Munitions, suggesting the general observance of rations in accordance with the scale of allowance prescribed by the Public Meals Order, with such variations as may seem desirable having regard to the occupation of the person supplied.

Sir H. CRAIK

Am I to understand that if it is represented that a strict rule of this sort has been laid down that is a misrepresentation?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I can show my hon. Friend the Order.

Sir H. CRAIK

It is only a suggestion, not an Order.

21. Sir H. CRAIK

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the War Office has issued any Orders restricting the amount which soldiers who receive a money payment in lieu of rations may purchase in a military canteen below the amount which they would receive were they on rations instead of receiving the money payment?

The UNDERSECRETARY Of STATE for WAR (Mr. Macpherson)

A soldier receiving a money payment in lieu of rations can spend the money as he likes, and no restrictions have been placed by the War Office on purchases in canteens, except that, in the interest of food economy, the buying of ham or bacon for the provision of sandwiches is prohibited.

Sir H. CRAIK

Then if there is a restriction in the amount of bread that is permitted to be sold to soldiers that is not done with the consent of the War Office or by the Order of the War Office?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I cannot say that, because this is not particularly in my Department. My recollection is, however, that there is some restriction placed upon the soldier so far as private sales are concerned.

Sir H. CRAIK

But not below the rations?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Not below the rations.

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