HC Deb 24 July 1946 vol 426 cc37-8
69. Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of Food whether he is yet in a position to make a further statement on the despatch of food parcels to starving people abroad and, if so, whether he will give the broad outline of the scheme.

Dr. Summerskill

I regret having to inform my hon. Friend that after careful consideration my right hon. Friend is unable at the present moment, when we are rationing our own bread, to sanction the sending of food parcels abroad. My right hon. Friend hopes that both this decision and the reason for it may be reviewed in the not too distant future.

Mr. Stokes

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that this answer will cause great distress among a. large number of people, and will she explain why it is necessary to have a delay, in view of the fact that the proposal only means further self-sacrifice on the part of individuals, and no further drain on the food resources of this country?

Dr. Summerskill

If my hon. Friend will put another Question in perhaps two months' time, he may be more satisfied with the answer.

Mr. Stokes

Is the hon. Lady aware that in the meantime, in those two months, many thousands of people abroad will starve and people in this country will be prevented from helping their friends in nations abroad?

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