HC Deb 20 February 1940 vol 357 cc1134-5
37. Mr. E. J. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will inquire into the alleged wastage of food at a camp in Wales, of which he has the name; in particular, that the swill contains whole loaves of bread and joints of meat; that loaves of bread are exchanged for drinks at the local hotels; and who holds the contract for the camp swill?

Mr. Stanley

These allegations have come to notice, and I am informed that the swill is inspected by the commanding officer practically every day, and that no loaves or joints of meat have been found in it; further that, although watch is being kept, no evidence has come to light of the theft of loaves from the cookhouse or the exchange of loaves for drinks at the local hotels. The present swill contractor is Mr. J. J. George.

Viscountess Astor

Would it not be a good idea to appoint a really competent woman to do this work?

Mr. Stanley

One of the things we have to do is to see that loaves of bread are not exchanged for drinks at the local hotel.

Viscountess Astor

Is that not all the more reason for appointing a woman who knows something about this?

Mr. McGovern

She might get drank.