HC Deb 13 March 1946 vol 420 c1100
62. Mr. G. Lang

asked the Minister of Food how many applications for release on the grounds of ownership of one-man businesses have been recommended by the Manchester divisional food office; and how many refused from the inception of the scheme to 28th February.

Dr. Summerskill

Out of 260 applications, 40 have been recommended for release under Class B. A substantial proportion of the balance obtained release on compassionate grounds under Class C arrangements

Mr. Lang

Does the hon. Lady really think that that is a satisfactory proportion? Can she say if the recent change in personnel in Manchester means that there will be a little more sympathetic consideration given to these cases?

Dr. Summerskill

I would remind the hon. Member that we cannot release men on compassionate grounds. That is a matter for the Services. All one-man businesses do not necessarily indicate that the one man concerned must come out on industrial grounds