§ 57. Sir H. Williamsasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster the date on which compulsory meat rationing was introduced during the Great War; and why it is proposed to introduce it so much sooner on this occasion?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonIn the Great War the national scheme for the rationing of meat was introduced on 7th April, 1918. Previously, in 1918, meat, along with some other essential foods, had been rationed in certain areas of the country under local schemes. Rationing was not introduced in the Great War until after serious shortages had arisen, with the undesirable consequences of unequal distribution. In the light of this experience our plans for a future emergency have contemplated the introduction of rationing of certain essential foods at an early stage with a view to ensuring equitable distribution to all consumers and to conserving available supplies which are inevitably reduced at the outset of war owing to the needs of the Services and the irregular arrival of ships.
§ Sir H. WilliamsWhy is it proposed to introduce rationing before any appeal has been made to the public to ration voluntarily, and before any shortage has been created?
§ Mr. MorrisonI think the answer is contained in my reply to the question.
§ Mr. A. V. AlexanderIs the Minister aware that last week the meat importers defence association issued only 20 per cent. of the normal ration and that public rationing is urgently and immediately necessary?
§ Sir H. WilliamsIs it the case that the meat importers issued only 20 per cent. because some of them supply their own shops before they supply the shops of their competitors?
§ Mr. AlexanderIs the Minister aware that if there was any trouble of this kind, the fault is with those who are actually in control of the Department?