CANTEENS, LIVERPOOL DOCKS.

HC Deb 12 February 1941 vol 368 cc1356-7

51. Mr. Logan

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food what arrangements he is making to set ma canteens on the line of docks. Liverpool, providing hot meals at reasonable prices for the dockers?

Major Lloyd George

There are already a number of canteens supplying, the requirements of the area to which my hon. Friend refers, but my Noble Friend will be glad to co-operate with the local authorities concerned if an extension of existing facilities is considered desirable.

Mr. Logan

I am asking about canteens for the dockside. Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board and the Liverpool City Council do not accept responsibility, and that the trouble we are having with shipping in Liverpool is due to the men being unable to get adequate food at reasonable prices? Will the Minister set up such a system that Liverpool can be the western port?

Major Lloyd George

We expect the local authorities to take the responsibility, but a large part of the financial outlay is furnished by the Government and a good deal of assistance is given for these canteens. We are anxious to see that these facilities are granted and I hope that local authorities will approach us.

Mr. Shinwell

As the question of canteens is closely allied to that of adequate production, would it not be desirable for the Government to accept full responsibility and not leave it in the hands of the local authorities?

Mr. Logan

As I know Liverpool, may I put it to the Minister that this is a matter of the utmost urgency and that the whole system of Liverpool on the dockside will break down unless this arrangement is made? Will he see that such provision is made and that both parties put it into operation?

Major Lloyd George

I am most anxious to see this system extended satisfactorily. I have seen it working in other parts of the country, and it has been acceptable to all who are working it. Therefore, I am in favour of extending it, and if the hon. Gentleman would like to communicate to me what some of the difficulties are, I should be glad to co-operate with him.