Ex-Service Man (Fruit Shop, Supplies)

HC Deb 03 May 1944 vol 399 cc1319-20

48. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that a man recently pensioned from the Army and granted a licence to open a fruit shop has been refused a supply of oranges, lemons and tomatoes on the ground that he was not in business in 1940; and whether he will redress this injustice to ex-Service men.

Colonel Llewellin

I am looking into the particular case to which my hon. Friend has drawn my attention and will write to him as soon as my inquiries are complete.

Mr. Keeling

Will my right hon. and gallant Friend publish the reply in the OFFICIAL REPORT, the matter being one of public interest?

Colonel Llewellin

Certainly.

Miss Ward

Is the general principle accepted with regard to the allocation of goods to ex-Servicemen starting after discharge?

Colonel Llewellin

It depends very largely on the circumstances and whether there is a consumer need in the area, and of course in regard to goods which are in short supply any allocation to a newcomer opening up a shop in the area has to be taken away from the supplies allotted to existing traders.

Miss Ward

What about the position of ex-Servicemen who have been guaranteed that they shall get back again into trade?