HC Deb 11 September 1942 vol 383 cc513-4
26. Sir Frank Sanderson

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that British Restaurants are, in a number of cases, being used by the general public as a means of cheap convenience, thus crowding out legitimate war workers; and whether he will consider the issue of passes to war workers in order that they should receive priority over others?

Mr. Mabane

I am aware that workers with a limited lunch period have experienced difficulty in obtaining meals at British restaurants. In such cases the local authority responsible for the operation of the restaurant can make arrangements for priority for workers. Such arrangements have been made by some authorities. I recognise the importance of the point raised by my hon. Friend and am arranging for the issue of a general instruction recommending priority for workers.

Sir F. Sanderson

Is my hon. Friend aware, that the complaint is not an isolated one but general in many munition factory areas, and in view of this will he consider adopting the suggestion indicated in those cases in which it can be established to the satisfaction of the Minister that the complaint is a very real and legitimate one?

Mr. Mabane

That is precisely the point of my answer.

Mr. Shinwell

Are we given to understand that because there is a demand, apparently, on the part of the public to utilise these cheap and useful British Restaurants, there is to be provided priority for certain people? If there is a demand, why not provide extra British Restaurants?

Mr. Mabane

British Restaurants are being opened at the rate of two a day at present. The responsibility for initiating projects rests with local authorities. My Department is always anxious to approve their projects when the need is evident. It is important that war workers should be given some priority, and in most cases the public are very anxious to conform with suggestions that places should be left for the war workers.

Mr. Shinwell

I appreciate that war workers must have priority treatment, but is it not obvious that these restaurants are catering for a legitimate demand, and that the meals provided at them compare very favourably with higher-priced meals at other restaurants?