§ 46. Sir Waldron Smithersasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, in view of the fact that many married women are now in Government employ, he will make arrangements for them to do their shopping without having to stand in queues; has his attention been called to a system adopted in the Slough district, where shopping cards of different colours for different days are being issued, and shops kept open at special hours for women who hold these cards; and whether he will consider adopting a similar plan throughout the country?
Major Lloyd GeorgeAs I informed my hon. Friend the Member for Tamworth (Sir J. Mellor) on 8th July, it has been decided wherever possible and practicable to improve distributive methods by an extension of rationing or otherwise. When these improvements have been effected queues for practically all foodstuffs should cease so far as they are due to local shortages. In the meantime the local officers of the Ministry of Food and Ministry of Labour have been instructed to do what is possible in consultation with local trade organisations to assist married women workers to do their shopping, whether on the lines now in experimental operation in certain shops in Slough or otherwise, as may best suit local conditions.
§ Sir W. SmithersIn view of the wonderful national work done by these women, many of them married, why cannot my right hon. and gallant Friend take some really effective action to see that they get their weekly rations in good time?
Major Lloyd GeorgeAs I pointed out to my hon. Friend in my answer, the most effective means would be to have a better system of distribution, and, as I have told the House, I am very hopeful that it will shortly be in operation.
§ Mr. MesserBut are not queues the fairest way of doing it? [HON. MEMBERS: "No."] If you do not have queues, you will have scrambles, which will be worse.