HC Deb 05 December 1945 vol 416 c2327
61. Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicks

asked the Minister of Food why a supplementary ration is not available to workers employed in digging and the preparation of the ground for food production when it is for workers employed in fruit picking and similar lighter occupations.

Sir B. Smith

Special allowances of food are granted to farmers to provide meals for those engaged in harvesting and certain other seasonal activities which in general involve exceptionally long hours of work, and must be completed without delay. Although certain types of harvest work, such as fruit picking, are less exacting than others, digging and the preparation of the ground do not fulfil the requirement of exceptional hours or urgency.

Lieut. - Commander Joynson - Hicks

Does the Minister appreciate that, though it may not fulfil the requirements, it entails just as much expenditure of energy, and will he not consider extending these facilities for this additional purpose?

Sir B. Smith

Yes, Sir, and when I supply food on the basis of energy expended, I know a lot of people who will go short.

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