§ 72. Sir Robert Youngasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that there are a number of diseases and physical conditions of patients, not stated in Group 1 or 2, for which doctors think a liberal supply of milk is necessary; and whether he will make arrangements whereby patients who are not covered by Group 1 list of diseases but are considered to be permanently ill can have two pints of 2059 milk per day provided the need for such an allowance of milk is certified by his or her doctor?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Mr. Mabane)I am aware that certain doctors hold the view suggested by my hon. Friend. The comparative needs of different groups of people for liquid milk, including persons suffering from various diseases, have been most carefully considered in conjunction with the Food Rationing (Special Diets) Advisory Committee of the Medical Research Council. In view of the supply position and the need for maintaining at least a small supply for the healthy population, it has been possible to grant full priority only to those for whom a liberal supply of milk is a therapeutic necessity, and a smaller priority allowance to those for whom a moderate amount of milk is necessary. In the circumstances my Noble Friend would not feel justified in extending priority to other classes of temporary or permanent invalids for whom additional supplies of milk can only be regarded as a comfort and not a necessity.
§ Sir R. YoungIs my hon. Friend aware that in cases of this kind a liberal supply of milk is judged to be necessary by the doctor in attendance, on the patient and should the special knowledge of the doctor be ruled out by the Committee?
§ Mr. MabaneAs my hon. Friend knows, doctors do not always take the same view, and we must be guided by the decisions of the Special Diets Advisory Committee and the Medical Research Council. We must have some central body to guide us, and we must act in uniformity throughout the country in accordance with their advice.