HC Deb 20 March 1918 vol 104 cc974-5
88. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is now in a position to give any further information with regard to the matter of rations to invalids, other than cases of diabetics and tuberculosists; whether he is aware of the number of per sons suffering from throat affections, some of whom have undergone the operation of tracheotomy, and that these persons require special food; and what steps, if any, the Government propose, to take to enable them to obtain the food that is necessary to meet their requirements?

Mr. CLYNES

The Ministry of Food, on the advice of its scientific advisers and after consultation with physicians, hospital managers, and representatives of the Local Government Board, has drawn up approved scales of hospital dietaries which will shortly be published. With regard to extra meat rations, the Ministry is advised that in addition to tubercle and diabetes, these are only required in cases of pancreatic insufficiency—including cœliac disease. Increased fat rations are limited to the two diseases first named. Where invalids are unable to swallow, and have to be fed by tube with concentrated nourishment, extra sugar may be granted.