§ 66. Mr. Markhamasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware that in the Nottingham area butter wholesalers are allowed to distribute only 50 per cent. of normal July supplies to retailers, and that in consequence, since July is a holiday month, Nottingham is being unfairly treated for supplies in comparison with coastal towns; and will he remedy this immediately?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonUnder the temporary distribution scheme butter has been distributed to first-hand suppliers on the basis of 50 per cent. of their sales in the June-July period of 1939. In subsequent distribution through trade channels every effort is made to secure the most equitable distribution possible, taking account of all the circumstances. Distribution in the Nottingham area on the reduced allocation has been in line with that applied to the country as a whole, and supplementary allocations have also been made in that area.
§ Mr. MarkhamCan the Minister say when the supplementary allocation was given and what was the percentage?
§ Mr. MorrisonI could, with notice, give my hon. Friend the date in question, and the quantities.
§ Mr. CocksIs it not a fact that butter is being distributed on the basis of registered customers in each area?
§ Mr. MorrisonYes, Sir. We are commencing now to correct the allocations with the information that has been derived from the registration of customers, and from to-day there will be, I hope, an improvement in the position.