§ 50. Lieut.-Colonel Profumoasked the Prime Minister whether transport conditions will now permit the supply of English beer, in large and regular quantities, for consumption by troops in Italy.
§ The Prime MinisterLike my hon. and gallant Friend, I returned from Italy with this earnest request, and I gave immediate instructions that every effort was to be made to meet it. The War Office inform me that English beer with the necessary keeping-qualities is not at present available in sufficient quantities to meet the demands for all theatres of war. Local breweries in Italy are being developed as quickly as possible and other measures are in hand to improve supplies. I shall be glad to be assisted by the House in watching this matter with vigilance.
§ Mr. Evelyn WalkdenIs the Prime Minister not aware that N.A.A.F.I. have for months past been telling the British public that they have secured breweries and are brewing in Italy? Could we not transfer a few English working brewers and get English beer brewed?
§ The Prime MinisterThat suggestion will reach the War Office, which is naturally the Department to deal with the details of the matter, and they can look forward to support from the House in their praiseworthy task.