§ 57. Mr. G. Macdonaldasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, in excluding the colliery surface worker from the higher ration of cheese granted to the mineworkers, regard was had to the heavy nature of the work many surface workers are engaged upon; and whether the Minister would be prepared to meet representatives of the coal industry to discuss this question?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe higher ration of cheese is to meet the special case of underground miners who require to take 1165 suitable food with them. It is not a supplementary ration in respect of heavy work. My noble Friend keeps in close touch with the T.U.C. and he feels that discussion with them is the proper course, in view of the representative mature of that body.
§ Mr. MacdonaldIn view of the deputation received by the noble Lord and the undertaking given as to canteens for surface workers, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman and the Secretary for Mines press forward for the provision of such canteens?