HC Deb 22 March 1944 vol 398 c858
56. Dr. Little

asked the Minister of Food the quantity of cereals exported to Eire from the United Kingdom for brewing purposes during the past 12 months; and what additional quantity of cereals has been promised for that purpose.

Colonel Llewellin

In reply to the first part of my hon. Friend's Question, it is not in the national interest to disclose figures of exports during war-time. As regards the second part the answer is no additional quantity.

Mr. Molson

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware of the serious shortage of beer in this country and the undesirability of exporting any materials which can be used to increase the production of beer?

Colonel Llewellin

That is not what is happening. What we are doing is to send some cereals to Southern Ireland and they are exporting the beer to the country. That means a saving of labour, for us.

Viscountess Astor

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman really think that beer is better than food?

Dr. Little

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the cereals used for beer are needed for the food of the population?