HC Deb 11 February 1943 vol 386 c1448
64. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food when it is proposed to annul the system of house-charges as this has resulted in increased profits to the restaurant at the expense of the consumer?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Mr. Mabane)

My Noble Friend does not propose to amend the Meals in Establishment Order, 1942, in the sense suggested by my hon. Friend. I cannot accept the suggestion in the latter part of my hon. and gallant Friend's Question.

Sir T. Moore

Does the Parliamentary Secretary realise that these charges serve no useful purpose except to enrich the profits of luxury hotels and force the public to eat and pay for what they do not want?

Mr. Mabane

I cannot accept that as the main reason for the present prosperity of restaurants.