HC Deb 28 March 1945 vol 409 cc1365-6
63. Captain Gammans

asked the Minister of Food if his attention has been drawn to the objection by the borough of Erith Chamber of Commerce to the granting of a licence for selling confectionery to Mr. Younger, at 113, High Street, Erith; if he is aware that his divisional food officer stated that as, Mr. Younger is connected with a multiple firm, he is under the Ministry's present arrangements, in a favoured position as compared with single owner businesses; and if he will reconsider his policy in this respect.

Mr. Mabane

Yes, Sir, the attention of my right hon. and gallant Friend has been drawn to the matters set out in my hon. Friend's Question. The statement by the Licensing Officer of the London Food Division was incorrect and should not have been made. The object of the policy of my right hon. and gallant Friend is at all times to give equal treatment to all classes of traders and to avoid favoured treatment for any.