§ 73. Mr. DONALDasked the Food Controller whether he will grant an extra half-pound of sugar per week till after Christmas?
§ Mr. McCURDYThe Food Controller regrets that the supplies available do not permit of the hon. Member's suggestion being adopted.
§ Mr. WADDINGTONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that grocers largely have in their possession stocks which would permit of this allowance being granted? They have weekly 10 per cent. above their requirements granted, and out of that 10 per cent. they have accumulated stocks which would permit of this.
§ Mr. McCURDYIt is quite possible that, so far as the distribution of sugar in this country is concerned, there may be stocks in hand with retailers, but, so far as the supply as a whole [...] concerned, I regret to say there is a serious shortage.
§ Mr. MOLESIf grocers have sugar in stock will the hon. Gentleman see that they are permitted to dispose of it?
§ Mr. McCURDYNo, Sir; I cannot give any such undertaking.