HC Deb 20 February 1918 vol 103 cc727-8
56. Major CHAPPLE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that children are going hungry to bed whose hunger could be satisfied with the food that is being given to race-horses and destroyed in breweries; and whether he intends to take any steps to avert the danger that threatens our country in the growing discontent of the masses, who believe that their distress is due to the tenderness shown by the Government to wealthy and powerful vested interests?

Mr. CLYNES

I do not believe that children are going hungry to bed by reason of any shortage of cereal foods. I stated the other day that there was no evidence of any growing discontent, but that there was evidence of an increasing appreciation of the difficulties with which we are confronted and of the efforts we are making to overcome them.

Mr. DUNCAN MILLAR

Will the hon. Gentleman take into account the evidence which he receives from large industrial centres, such as Govan and Clydebank?

Mr. CLYNES

Certainly; but I think my hon. Friend will agree that hardships are not claimed to be due to the particular source of food shortage alleged in this question.

Mr. MILLAR

Will the hon. Gentleman look at the question and he will see that it refers also to brewers as well as horses?

Mr. A. RICHARDSON

Will the hon. Gentleman ration beer in the same fashion-as he is rationing tea?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Gentleman should give notice of that question.

Mr. W. THORNE

It is already rationed.