§ 33. Mr. Bateyasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will consider increasing the tea ration for persons who take no meals in restaurants?
§ Mr. BateyDoes the Minister realise that there are many old people who cannot go to restaurants to get food, and ought not they to have some consideration?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI am always prepared to consider any cases put forward, but the hon. Member will appreciate that it would be extremely difficult administratively to divide people into those who go to restaurants and those who do not.
§ Mr. BateyIs it not a fact that there are some people who can go to restaurants and others who cannot, and ought not those who cannot go to be given additional rations?
Major Lloyd GeorgeIt would be very difficult administratively. With the increase in the number of British Restaurants, we hope that more people will be able to go to restaurants.
§ Miss Eleanor RathboneIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that this is one of the most unfair things in the rationing system, and that the ration could be increased if no tea could be obtained at restaurants without coupons, and if tea 1536 and coffee were included in the same ration?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI cannot possibly accept the hon. Lady's statement. It is a suggestion that is made often with regard to other commodities as well, and it has no foundation.