§ 36. Mr. Thorneasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food what amount of social labour will be saved when, from 2nd May, the packing of flour will be permitted only in 3 lb., 6 lb., 12 lb. and 24 lb. containers; and whether it is intended to ration bread?
§ Mr. MabaneI am unable to give an estimate of the labour which will be saved when arrangements are in operation for the packing of flour solely in the weights mentioned, but I am advised that this standardisation will effect savings at several stages, both in connection with the manufacture of packing material and the subsequent packing and distribution of flour. The saving of labour is, however, a secondary consideration. The primary purpose is to provide a basis for a scheme of flour and bread rationing should this at any time become necessary. In so far as the second part of the Question is concerned I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend, the Member for West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen) on 20th January.
§ Mr. ThorneWill the right hon. Gentleman send me a reply to the latter part of the Question?
§ Mr. MabaneI will send my hon. Friend a copy of the answer referred to.
§ Mr. R. J. TaylorWould it not have been better to put up the flour in the usual weights?
§ Mr. MabaneNo, Sir.
§ Mr. TaylorWhy not?
§ Mr. MabaneBecause that would not have fitted in.