HC Deb 03 November 1943 vol 393 c665
62. Mr. McKinlay

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that one firm of bakers in Glasgow is producing an almost white loaf; and why this loaf produced from national flour is produced by only one firm?

Mr. Mabane

I am aware that some of the batch bread produced in Glasgow is of a very light colour, but have no reason to suppose that the terms of the Bread (Control and Maximum Prices) Order, which permit the use of up to 25 per cent. of white flour in batch bread are not being complied with. I am not aware that this bread is baked by only one firm, nor do I know of any reason why this should be the case.

Mr. McKinlay

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this Question is based on information from the locality, and is it not a peculiar circumstance that there is only one firm turning out that type of bread?

Mr. Mabane

I am sure the hon. Gentleman knows the peculiar qualities of batch bread which make it rather more nearly white than other classes of bread. I have no reason to believe that only one firm can or does make this type of bread.

Mr. McKinlay

Can the hon. Gentleman give me an assurance that he will have the bread analysed?

Mr. Mabane

We have already done so.

Mr. Banfield

May I ask the Minister whether the trade is aware of the distinction made between batch bread and other kinds of bread?

Mr. Mabane

I should have thought that the trade, generally, knew the position in regard to batch bread.