HC Deb 27 February 1918 vol 103 cc1357-8
36. Mr. MILLAR

asked whether possession of eggs and vegetables purchased in the market and preserved or pickled for use during the season will make the purchaser liable to a charge of hoarding under the Hoarding Order, or whether eggs and vegetables will be treated in the same way as fruit purchased for preserving purposes?

Mr. CLYNES

The provisions of the Food Hoarding Order apply equally to all descriptions of acquired as opposed to produced supplies.

Mr. MILLAR

Is an exception not made in the case of fruit, and if an exception is to be made in the case of fruit purchased for preserving, is there any reason why a distinction should be drawn between fruit, vegetables, and eggs?

Mr. CLYNES

An exception in the sense stated in the question is not made in the case of fruit. The exception suggested in the question means that persons should be allowed to buy or procure eggs in large quantities from others and preserve them for future use for themselves.

Mr. MILLAR

Is that not exactly what is allowed in the case of fruit, that persons may acquire fruit for preserving purposes and keep it for themselves?

Mr. CLYNES

I do not admit that there is an exact similarity.

Mr. BILLING

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether the week of grace instituted by the Ministry has been a success and has been justified; and whether convictions in the future will be more serious than in the past?

Mr. CLYNES

That scarcely arises out of the question, but I shall be glad to reply to it in answer to a notice question.

Mr. EUGENE WASON

If a lady for benevolent objects purchases these eggs at 2½d. each, is she allowed to sell them at the same price to persons in her employment?

Mr. CLYNES

it would depend upon the conditions of sale. As to any further answer I should require notice of the question.