HC Deb 11 October 1944 vol 403 cc1755-6
70. Dr. Haden Guest

asked the Minister of Food whether the recently announced policy of the Government that facilities will be given to disabled ex-Servicemen wishing to open a shop applies to shops selling food.

Colonel Llewellin

I made arrangements some time ago for putting ex-retail food traders discharged from the Services into the priority class as regards the issue of licences to re-open their former businesses. As regards disabled ex-Service persons who were not previously retail food traders, I am at present engaged in making arrangements to enable suitable applicants to be given a preference in the granting of licences. As soon as I am able to announce details I will do so.

Dr. Guest

When does the Minister think he will be able to make an announcement on this matter, which is of great concern to ex-Servicemen?

Colonel Llewellin

Quite soon.

Mr. R. C. Morrison

Will the Minister bear in mind that there appears to be a tendency on the part of ex-Servicemen to invest their small savings in small shops? What happened after the last war caused the downfall of many thousands.

Colonel Llewellin

That is why I used the word "suitable." I am anxious to get some system for advising these people and for considering whether they ought to be encouraged to undertake this work.