HC Deb 06 March 1945 vol 408 cc1824-5
62. Mr. Driberg

asked the hon. Member for Dulwich (Sir Bracewell Smith), as Chairman of the Kitchen Committee, until what hour it is proposed to provide dining-room service on and after 13th March; at what hour he anticipates that the kitchen and dining-room staff will normally be off duty at night; and, on occasions when the Rule is suspended indefinitely, what steps are being taken to provide early breakfast for hon. Members and to enable the staff to secure transport to their homes during the night.

Sir Bracewell Smith

The Kitchen Committee has decided that, as far as possible, the catering arrangements from 13th March shall be as follow:

Hot luncheons will be available from 12.45 p.m. to 2.15 p.m. and hot dinners will be served from 6.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Light refreshments will be obtainable from 12 noon until the House rises. It is proposed to give these arrangements a month's trial, and afterwards to make any alterations that may become necessary.

Most of the members of the staff will be off duty at 9.30 each night, but, should occasions arise, when the Rule is suspended indefinitely, efforts will be made to supply the necessary refreshment. If, in the light of experience, it is found that existing transport facilities are inadequate, we will endeavour to arrange for the necessary additions to the service.

Mr. Driberg

While thanking the hon. Member for his reply, may I ask him, with reference to the last part of it, to bear in mind the needs of the staff as regards transport home on occasions such as those mentioned in the question?

Sir Bracewell Smith indicated assent.

Mr. Higgs

Will there be any catering arrangements for strangers in the evening?

Sir Bracewell Smith

The arrangements for strangers will continue as at present, and the same rooms will be available in the evenings.

Mr. Bowles

Will my hon. Friend really guarantee that there will be enough food for all hon. Members who want lunch and dinner, in view of the fact that now there is not enough for Members at lunch?

Sir Bracewell Smith

I would ask the hon. Member to wait until after the month's trial, and then raise the question, if necessary.

Mr. Bowles

If a certain number of meat rations are consumed in any given week, does that limit the amount of meat available in the following week?