§ 75. Mr. Lipsonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will reconsider the decision to close down egg-packing station No. 469, Cheltenham, as this station is economically and efficiently run, and, of the proprietors, one is serving in the Navy and the other is giving valuable part-time service in Civil Defence?
Major Lloyd GeorgeAs it is essential to achieve all possible economy of transport, petrol and man-power, the position of all egg-packing stations is being reviewed, and certain redundant stations, including No. 469, are being suspended. I regret I am unable to reconsider this decision. Arrangements are, however, being considered by the packers whereby redundant packers will be compensated by the surviving packers.
§ Mr. LipsonDoes the Parliamentary Secretary think it is quite playing the game to a Service man whose brother is trying to keep the business going? Would he reconsider his decision in this matter? What national interest is served by closing down all these small businesses?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe national interest is served by the saving of transport and man-power in closing those which you do not need. The saving of transport is a vital question at the present moment.