§ 62. Mr. Douglasasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the difficulty of ekeing out the soap ration in districts such as London where the water is hard; and whether he has any plans for meeting this difficulty.
§ Sir B. SmithYes, Sir, but I regret that I can see no means of improving the position until an increased supply of raw materials becomes available.
§ 64. Mr. Viantasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that large numbers of people in Willesden have been unable to obtain their soap ration for the past six weeks; why this has happened and if, in the interests of public health, he will take steps to ensure a more equitable distribution.
§ Sir B. SmithI am aware that the shortage of soap in London and other 616 areas, which arose as a result of the rapid return of evacuees, has been aggravated recently by an influx of visitors. I am making inquiries in regard to both supply and distribution. In the meantime considerably increased supplies are being allocated to the London area but it will be some little time before the position becomes much easier.
§ Mr. ViantIs my right hon. Friend aware of the fact that people who are unable to obtain their supplies one month, cannot make up that loss in the following month, and that, in many instances, they are two months behind in their rations?
§ Sir B. SmithI have no knowledge on that point, but if the hon. Member will consult me or write to me upon it, I will look into the matter.
§ Mr. GlanvilleIs the Minister aware that the North of England Members bring their soap ration with them when they come down here? Why cannot the visitors do likewise?