87. Dr. MURRAYasked the Food Controller whether he is aware that there is an acute shortage of food in Harris, Uist and Barra owing to inadequate steamer service, and that for some weeks there has been no meal obtainable in certain parts of North Uist; and whether he will take immediate steps to secure a regular supply of food to these islands?
§ Mr. McCURDYThe question of the steamer service to these islands has been, engaging the attention of the Ministry of Food for some time. Arrangements have now been made to provide a special vessel which will supplement the steamer services to these islands and will be used for conveying foodstuffs and for meeting any emergencies which arise. I may add that on receiving a personal intimation from the hon. Member yesterday of the difficulties to which attention is directed in this question, I have telegraphed to Colonel Rose, Divisional Food Commissioner for Scotland instructing him to take all steps for meeting any emergency in the supply of foodstuffs to these islands.