HC Deb 09 December 1942 vol 385 c1572
49. Mr. R. C. Morrison

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that in certain areas women war workers are still experiencing shopping difficulties; and will he instruct all local food controllers in industrial areas to make arrangements enabling women war workers to obtain their rationed goods and a fair share of unrationed goods?

Mr. Mabane

In agreement with the Ministry of Labour instructions have been given to the Divisional Food Officers asking that local officers should co-operate with the local welfare officers of the Ministry of Labour in alleviating the shopping difficulties of women workers in their districts. Local welfare officers have also received instructions from the Minister of Labour to take the initiative in arranging meetings of those most concerned in local shopping problems, including representatives of women war workers, traders and shop assistants. At such meetings, schemes adapted to local needs are framed to help women workers to obtain both their rations and a fair share of unrationed foods.

Mr. Morrison

Is the Minister aware that in some industrial districts excellent arrangements have been made which are working very well, while in adjoining districts of the same character nothing at all has been done, and there is dissatisfaction?

Mr. Mabane

I know very well that in Tottenham excellent arrangements have been made, and we would wish such arrangements to be extended to all other places where similar problems exist.