§ 31. Mr. DUNCAN MILLARasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether the control of grain and other food materials used for the manufacture of alcohol rests with the Food Controller or with the Ministry of Munitions?
Captain BATHURSTThe Ministry of Munitions controls the manufacture of 1531 spirit which is mainly required for munition purposes. The production of beer is regulated by the Food Controller.
§ Mr. MILLARMay I ask whether the Food Controller does not control the supply of food materials which are used for the manufacture of spirits for munition purposes?
Captain BATHURSTYes, undoubtedly the Food Controller keeps a most vigilant eye upon the supplies and availability of all foods, and as I have already more than once stated in this House, if there is any danger of such foods being lacking for human consumption the Government will take the necessary action.
§ Mr. HOGGECan the hon. Gentleman say, in view of the fact that the Controller of Potatoes has stated that there is only half-a-pound of potatoes available per head per week for the whole population for six weeks, whether any potatoes are being used for the manufacture of alcohol?
Captain BATHURSTI have no reason to believe that any potatoes in this country are being used for the manufacture of alcohol, but I cannot answer for the utterances, private or public, of Mr. Denniss, because I am not aware what all those utterances are.