§ 62. Mr. PENNEFATHERasked the parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if he is aware that dock labourers and others working overtime at heavy work require extra food in proportion to the overtime worked; and, if so, what 1366 arrangements will be made to increase the ration allowance proportionately to the overtime?
§ Mr. CLYNESI am aware that it is necessary for persons engaged on heavy work to eat more than others in order to obtain the necessary energy. It is not necessary for this additional consumption to be taken in the form of a particular food, such as meat, while many of the most important foods, such as bread and potatoes, are not subject to any rationing Regulations, and there is nothing to prevent men working overtime from obtaining the necessary additional food in this form. It is recognised, however, that men who, after working all day, are required to continue at work during the night, require special consideration, and arrangements to allow such meals to be served to such persons, notwithstanding the rationing Regulations, are being made. Further, as has already been stated, the Food Controller recognises the desirability of increasing the meat ration for heavy workers generally if and when supplies permit of this.
§ Mr. L. JONESIs not the hon. Gentleman afraid that his answer will drive people to consume increased quantities of bread, and is not the grain situation very serious?
§ Mr. CLYNESYes, the grain situation is serious, but I should hope that the effect of my answer will not be to drive people to consume more bread.