HC Deb 21 March 1945 vol 409 c809
55. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Minister of Food if, in view of the likelihood of a reduction in the civilian meat ration and the reliable evidence that from home resources we can collect and supply each average family with five wild rabbits and four table birds per year, he will now regard the subject of canalisation of supplies of poultry and rabbits as urgent and organise a scheme of controlled collections from sources of supply and equitable distribution to consumers through recognised trade channels.

Colonel Llewellin

No, Sir.

Mr. Walkden

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that since we had our last Debate canalisation to hotels and restaurants seems to have been on the increase? If they can canalise through the black market, surely the Minister can, through the legitimate market, canalise these supplies to the ordinary consumer? Why not try it?

Colonel Llewellin

We had a very interesting discussion on this matter, and the case was put pretty strongly on that occasion. I was not aware that it could have been put more strongly since.