HC Deb 07 July 1943 vol 390 cc2091-2
53. Squadron-Leader Donner

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether his attention has been drawn to the case of a trained nurse, employed on a serious medical case who, applying for a new ration book at the Food Office, Woking, was informed that she must travel from Surrey to Lancashire to do so, permission to obtain it by post being refused by the same official; and whether he will direct officials in all local food offices to use their discretion and common sense when discharging their duties?

Mr. Mabane

My attention has been drawn to the case in question. The registered address of the nurse is in Bolton. It has always been intended that the new ration book and identity card should in such a case as this be supplied through the post. I regret that in this instance the applicant was wrongly informed as to procedure. Arrangements for her to receive her new documents by post have now been made.

Squadron-Leader Donner

Is my hon. Friend aware that this is by no means an isolated case? Does this not constitute a grave warning against the extension after the war of a repulsive system of State control?