§ 36. Mr. F. WHYTEasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he has yet been able to take measures to relieve the position of small confectioners?
§ Mr. CLYNESA scheme has been prepared which would have the effect of diverting supplies of confectionery from large concerns to those whose livelihood is solely or mainly dependent on its sale. Certain objections to this scheme have been urged by the Consumers' Council, and it is intended to consider alternative proposals before definite steps are taken to afford relief.
§ Mr. BILLINGWill the hon. Gentleman give preference to the small British shop-owner as distinct from the alien shop-owner?
§ Mr. CLYNESThat matter will be considered by those who finally have to determine what will be done.
§ Colonel BURNCan the hon. Gentleman say whether he has prohibited the 1315 sale of sweets in cinemas, theatres, and such places in order to help the small dealer?
§ Mr. CLYNESThat step has not been taken. It has been found that many of the contracts for the sale of sweets in cinemas are in the hands of poor people, and not in the hands of the big traders.
§ Mr. CLYNESOn the Consumers' Council there are representatives who represent collectively the general interests of the consumers.
§ Mr. BILLINGIs there one small consumer on the council?
§ Mr. CLYNESI think there is nobody coming under that description on the council.